bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Securing workers beyond the perimeter
Authors: Gordon Scott
Published: January 2020

Although the delayed WeWork IPO has had a troubled journey, the growth of the start-up highlights the wider shift in the commercial real estate market as more organisations embrace new working practices. Globally, teleworking is expanding, with a recent survey suggesting that at least 70% of knowledge workers work at least one day a week out of the office. 1 However, for some organisations in areas such as financial services and the public sector, one of the objections against teleworking is security. The fear that remote workers are more vulnerable to cyber attack means that these sectors are remaining locked into the old office model.

Teleworking is expanding, but some organisations – especially in financial services and the public sector – remain concerned about security.

Part of the issue concerns organisations that have failed to evolve IT security to match the growth of teleworking. Security tools are also lacking. Securing the remote workforce requires IT or security teams to conduct regular audit refreshes and IT security policy training sessions. This must be within the context of maintaining best-practice IT security processes, says Scott Gordon of Pulse Secure.
Systematic Review of Displacement and Health Impact From Natural Disasters in Southeast Asia
Authors: Jang Subin , Ekyalongo Yuko , Kim Hyun
Published: January 2020

Disaster-induced displacement is associated with an increased risk of physical and mental health disorders. We aim to understand (1) the magnitude and pattern of natural disasters, affected-population, and deaths by analyzing the surveillance data by the Emergency Events Database and (2) health outcomes by a systematic review of previous studies (1975–2017), which reported physical or mental health outcomes and epidemiological measure of association among population displaced by natural disasters in Southeast Asia. A total of 674 disasters, mainly floods, storms, and earthquakes, occurred between 2004 and 2017. From the systematic review, among 6 studies met inclusion criteria, which focused on mental health (n = 5) and physical health (n = 1). All studies describing mental health resulted from the 2004 tsunami in Ache, Indonesia. We found over 7 times more publications for the disasters in Far East Asia. Selected studies revealed significantly worse mental health outcomes and poor physical health among displaced population compared with nondisplaced population. Despite the alarmingly large population displaced by natural disasters in Southeast Asia, very few studies investigate physical and mental health outcomes of such crisis. Following the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030, researcher and policy-makers have to present more resources toward preventing and mitigating health outcomes.
Intra-uterine growth restriction induced by maternal low-protein diet causes long-term alterations of thymic structure and function in adult male rat offspring
Authors: Armengaud Jean-Baptiste , Dennebouy Zelie , Labes Danny , Fumey Catherine , Wilson Anne , Candotti Fabio , Yzydorczyk Catherine , Simeoni Umberto
Published: January 2020

Early malnutrition, the first environmental cause of intra-uterine growth restriction, impairs development of the thymus. Alterations of the thymic structure and function are reported at young ages in murine and ovine models. However, descriptions of thymic consequences of fetal malnutrition at adulthood are scarce. The present study investigates thymic structure, protein expression and cell selection process observed at postnatal day 180 (PND180) in male offspring of rats exposed to maternal low-protein diet (mLPD) compared with control diet during gestation. The thymic index was lower in adult offspring exposed to mLPD (P < 0·05). The thymic cortico-medullar ratio was lower in adult offspring exposed to mLPD (P < 0·05). At PND180, the protein expression of the lymphotoxin β receptor (P < 0·05), the autoimmune regulator (P < 0·05) and Forkhead Box P3 (FoxP3; P < 0·05) was all significantly lower in the mLPD group. The CD4+:CD8+ single-positive thymocyte subpopulation ratio and CD4+:CD8+ lymphocyte subpopulation ratio were increased in the mLPD group (P < 0·05). Among CD3+ lymphocytes, the proportions of CD4+CD8+ double-positive lymphocytes, CD31+ recent thymic emigrants and CD4+FoxP3+ lymphocytes were not significantly different between mLPD and control groups. These findings suggest mLPD during gestation induced long-lasting alterations in the development of thymic structure and thymic cell maturation and selection process in adult male rat offspring.
Salt need needs investigation
Authors: Leshem Micah
Published: January 2020

Expensive and extensive studies on the epidemiology of excessive Na intake and its pathology have been conducted over four decades. The resultant consensus that dietary Na is toxic, as well as the contention that it is less so, ignores the root cause of the attractiveness of salted food. The extant hypotheses are that most Na is infiltrated into our bodies via heavily salted industrialised food without our knowledge and that mere exposure early in life determines lifelong intake. However, these hypotheses are poorly evidenced and are meagre explanations for the comparable salt intake of people worldwide despite their markedly different diets. The love of salt begins at birth for some, vacillates in infancy, climaxes during adolescent growth, settles into separate patterns for men and women in adulthood and, with age, fades for some and persists for others. Salt adds flavour to food. It sustains and protects humans in exertion, may modulate their mood and contributes to their ailments. It may have as yet unknown benefits that may promote its delectability, and it generates controversy. An understanding of the predilection for salt should allow a more evidence-based and effective reduction of the health risks associated with Na surfeit and deficiency. The purpose of this brief review is to show the need for research into the determinants of salt intake by summarising the little we know.
Symbolic Economies between a Black Mirror and Black Aesthetic
Authors: SHAFER JOSEPH R.
Published: January 2020

This essay seeks to review the edges of Eric Lott's Black Mirror. But to approach the inner and outer edges of “a black mirror” is to sense the threat that they could become two sides of the same coin. In chapter 1, “Black Mirror: State Fantasy and Symbolic Surplus Value,” Lott writes, “we should explore the dimensions and especially the consequences of the fantasy race is – consequences that suffuse the consciousness of class, sexuality, gender, and other lines of force. Live there a while, in thought as in life. That is what this book tries to do.” To take up this invitation is therefore to first locate that space which readers are asked to live in for a while. However, to near that territory is not to enter the fantasy of race, if only to critique it, for we are already there. Nor is it accessed by abandoning the value of race, Lott contends, especially while the economy of whiteness continues profiting from “black symbolic capital.” Here we encounter the daunting scope of a “black mirror,” where horizon lines become Fata Morganas: an area that covers “the mechanics, dispositions, and effects of the dominant culture's looking at itself always through a fantasized black Other” (xvii). The dimensions of that mirror prove wider still, as any race, gender or class is shown capable of reflecting itself in it. More specifically, Black Mirror questions how signs of racial difference might possibly divest from the dominant symbolic economies in which they are exchanged, except Black Mirror largely does so by demonstrating their reinvestment. When analyzing the fantasies, angles and contradictions of a “black mirror,” readers are compelled to seek its outer edges, a market with real use-value, spaces where gifts are exchanged, or a beyond alluded to as “occupying the tain of the mirror – the mirror's tin backing that allows it to reflect at all” (20).
Molecular characterization and tissue localization of glutathione S-transferase from adult Ancylostoma ceylanicum
Authors: Hang J.X. , He L. , Abuzeid A.M.I. , Huang Y. , Liu Y.Q. , Yan X.X. , Zhao Q. , Li X. , Liu J.M. , Li G.Q.
Published: January 2020

Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) are a detoxifying enzyme family that is essential for parasite blood-feeding and survival, and represent potential targets for hookworm vaccine development. Multiple GST-encoding complementary DNAs (cDNAs) have been cloned from Ancylostoma caninum and Necator americanus, but there are no reports about the cloning of this enzyme from Ancylostoma ceylanicum, the animal-derived zoonotic hookworm. To study the molecular nature and tissue localization of GST of A. ceylanicum (Ace-GST), we designed primers based on the GST gene sequence of A. ceylanicum in GenBank, amplified the Ace-GST cDNA by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, and analysed its homology and genetic evolution relationship. The amplified product was cloned into the pET-32a vector and transformed into Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) for expression. To prepare anti-GST polyclonal antibodies, the recombinant protein was purified and used to immunize Kunming mice. The level of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody in the serum of immunized mice was detected by indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and the Ace-GST localization in adult worm was determined using the immunofluorescence method. The results showed that the full-length cDNA encoding Ace-GST was 468 bp, which had the highest homology with Ac-GST-1 (60.1%) and clustered into one branch (v-class) with Ac-GST-1 and Na-GST-1 in a phylogenetic tree. Mice immunized with recombinant Ace-GST showed specific IgG antibody response. Immunolocalization revealed that natural Ace-GST is mainly located in the epidermis, muscle and intestine of the adult. These results may lay a foundation for further studies on the biological function of Ace-GST.
Attitudes of Armenian and German students toward British English, American English, and their own Englishes
Authors: Seyranyan Siranush , Westphal Michael
Published: January 2020

English today is a conglomerate of a vast array of different varieties of English. This linguistic diversity, captured most prominently in the World Englishes paradigm (Kachru, 1985), poses a challenge to English language teaching (ELT) in countries where English does not have an official status (i.e. there is no codified local norm) and is learned as a foreign language, such as Armenia or Germany. Learners of English in these countries are norm-dependent on ‘standard’ Englishes spoken as a native language (Kachru, 1985) as the models of teaching (Galloway & Rose, 2015: 196–198; Matsuda and Friedrich, 2012: 21–22). These ‘Standard Englishes’ are abstract and idealized concepts as they are never fully realized by speakers in their ‘clearly delimited, perfectly uniform, and perfectly stable’ (Milroy, 2001: 543) form. However, they are powerful ideas in the minds of speakers – and learners in particular – as the models of language teaching. Standard British (StBE) and Standard American English (StAmE) and their associated prestige accents Received Pronunciation and General American traditionally serve as the models of language teaching for learners (Kirkpatrick, 2007: 184–189; Phillipson, 1992: 136–172). StBE has long been considered the global prestige accent variety but Bayard et al. (2001: 41–43) hypothesize that it is gradually replaced by StAmE due to the global availability of the US media.
Childhood trauma and cognitive functioning in individuals at clinical high risk (CHR) for psychosis
Authors: Velikonja T. , Velthorst E. , Zinberg J. , Cannon T. D. , Cornblatt B. A. , Perkins D. O. , Cadenhead K. S. , Tsuang M. T. , Addington J. , Woods S. W. , McGlashan T. , Mathalon D. H. , Stone W. , Keshavan M. , Seidman L. , Bearden C. E.
Published: January 2020

Evidence suggests that early trauma may have a negative effect on cognitive functioning in individuals with psychosis, yet the relationship between childhood trauma and cognition among those at clinical high risk (CHR) for psychosis remains unexplored. Our sample consisted of 626 CHR children and 279 healthy controls who were recruited as part of the North American Prodrome Longitudinal Study 2. Childhood trauma up to the age of 16 (psychological, physical, and sexual abuse, emotional neglect, and bullying) was assessed by using the Childhood Trauma and Abuse Scale. Multiple domains of cognition were measured at baseline and at the time of psychosis conversion, using standardized assessments. In the CHR group, there was a trend for better performance in individuals who reported a history of multiple types of childhood trauma compared with those with no/one type of trauma (Cohen d = 0.16). A history of multiple trauma types was not associated with greater cognitive change in CHR converters over time. Our findings tentatively suggest there may be different mechanisms that lead to CHR states. Individuals who are at clinical high risk who have experienced multiple types of childhood trauma may have more typically developing premorbid cognitive functioning than those who reported minimal trauma do. Further research is needed to unravel the complexity of factors underlying the development of at-risk states.
Systematics and description of the lungfish genusSagenodusfrom the Carboniferous of the UK
Authors: BEEBY Esther L. , SMITHSON Timothy R. , CLACK Jennifer A.
Published: January 2020

The Carboniferous lungfish genusSagenodusis reviewed from all available British specimens and described in detail for the first time. We identify two species exclusive to the UK:Sagenodusinaequalis, the type species, deriving from the late Carboniferous (=Pennsylvanian); andSagenodus quinquecostatusderived from the early Carboniferous (=Mississippian). The genus is probably the most widespread of the known Carboniferous lungfish genera, but the British species have not been formally described since their discovery in the mid–late 19th Century. This work will provide data to help resolve existing questions about the position ofSagenodusin the phylogeny of Palaeozoic lungfishes, and provide a template for the recognition of isolated elements in museum collections and the finds from recent and future field work. The early Carboniferous species,S. quinquecostatus, shows a so far unique functional mechanism in which the lower tooth plates appear to rotate relative to the upper plates during jaw closure, implying a kinetic function at the symphysis or jaw joint.
Wave‐Equation Migration Velocity Analysis Using Radon‐Domain Common‐Image Gathers
Authors: He Bin , Liu Yike
Published: January 2020

The accuracy of the background velocity analysis is critical to image the subsurface structure in seismology. Wave‐equation migration velocity analysis using source‐domain common‐image gathers requires picking the relative moveouts based on semblance analysis. However, the picking process is complex and time‐consuming. To avoid picking and maintain efficiency in generating CIGs, an automatic wave‐equation migration velocity analysis method is proposed utilizing the focusing properties of the Radon‐domain common‐image gathers. Seismic events in the Radon‐domain common‐image gathers appear focused if an accurate migration velocity model is used; otherwise, the resultant events will be unfocused. The objective function is defined in the Radon domain to measure focus of the common‐image gathers automatically. The proposed migration velocity analysis method links the defocusing information to the migration velocity update under the assumption that model perturbations only result in slope shifts in the common‐image gathers. This method provides a reasonably accurate background velocity model for imaging and full‐waveform inversion without requiring an accurate initial velocity model. Tests on synthetic and field data demonstrate the effectiveness of the method. This method is tolerable to both inaccurate initial velocity models and the lack of low‐frequency data.
Addendum to “Hydrometric Data Rescue in the Paraná River Basin” by Andrés Antico, Ricardo O. Aguiar, and Mario L. Amsler
Authors: Antico Andrés , Mendizabal Sophie , Ferreira Lorena J. , Aguiar Ricardo O. , Amsler Mario L.
Published: January 2020

Antico et al. (2018, https://doi.org/10.1002/2017WR020897) made available the longest hydrometric record (1875–2017) of the Paraná River of South America, one of the 10 largest rivers in the world. The oldest part of this record (1875–1883) has low accuracy because it was obtained from a hand‐drawn plot of the time series of daily water levels at Rosario City, Argentina. Here we overcame this data limitation by digitizing more accurate typewritten daily water levels observed at Rosario in 1875–1883. The digitized levels were referenced to the modern datum, subjected to quality checks, and corrected for errors caused by a gradual gauge sinking. A rating curve was used to convert water levels into discharges. Interestingly, our data capture the extreme Paraná flood associated with the very strong 1877–1878 El Niño.
The transcription factor Foxd3 induces spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury by potentiating microRNA-214-dependent inhibition of Kcnk2
Authors: Li Ran , Zhao Kunchi , Ruan Qing , Meng Chunyang , Yin Fei
Published: January 2020

Spinal cord injury after surgical repair of the thoracic or thoracoabdominal aorta is a devastating complication that is associated with pathological changes, including inflammation, edema, and nerve cell damage. Recently, microRNA (miRNA)-modulated control of spinal cord injury has been actively investigated. This study aims to clarify the regulatory effect of miR-214-mediated inhibition of Kcnk2 following spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury (SCII) and the possible underlying mechanisms. SCII was induced in rats by occluding the aortic arch followed by reperfusion. Gain-of-function and loss-of-function experiments were conducted to explore the modulatory effects of Foxd3, miR-214 and Kcnk2 on PC12 cells under hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) conditions. MiR-214 and Kcnk2 were poorly expressed, while Foxd3 was highly expressed in the rat spinal cord tissues and H/R-treated PC12 cells. Kcnk2 overexpression enhanced the viability and inhibited the apoptosis of the H/R-treated PC12 cells. Notably, Foxd3 activated miR-214, and miR-214 targeted Kcnk2. In addition, upregulation of Kcnk2 or knockdown of Foxd3 promoted the cell viability and reduced the apoptosis of the H/R-treated PC12 cells. Overall, our study identified a novel mechanism of Foxd3/miR-214/Kcnk2 involving SCII, suggesting that either Foxd3 or miR-214 may be a novel target for the treatment of SCII.
Development of a protein-based system for transient epigenetic repression of immune checkpoint molecule and enhancement of antitumour activity of natural killer cells
Authors: Teratake Yoichi , Takashina Tomoki , Iijima Kenta , Sakuma Tetsushi , Yamamoto Takashi , Ishizaka Yukihito
Published: January 2020

Background

Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy improved the prognosis of cancer patients, but general administration of ICBs occasionally induces side effects that include immune-related adverse events and tumour hyper-progression. Here, we established a protein-based system, by which endogenous expression of IC molecule in natural killer (NK) cells was transiently repressed on enhancement of their antitumour activity.

Methods

A protein-based genome modulator (GM) system is composed of a transcription activator-like effector (TALE), DNA methyltransferase and a newly identified potent cell-penetrating peptide with nuclear-trafficking property named NTP. TALE was designed to target the promoter region of the programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) gene. After culturing human NK cells in the presence of NTP-GM protein, we examined endogenous PD-1 expression and antitumour activity of the treated cells.

Results

NTP-GM protein efficiently downregulated PD-1 expression in NK cells with increased CpG DNA methylation in the promoter region. The antitumour activity of the treated NK cells was enhanced, and repeated intraperitoneal administrations of the treated NK cells attenuated tumour growth of programmed death-ligand 1-positive tumour cells in vivo.

Conclusions

Because the incorporated NTP-GM protein was quickly degraded and negligible in the administered NK cells, the NTP-GM system could be an alternative option of an ICB without side effects.
Mechanisms governing the pioneering and redistribution capabilities of the non-classical pioneer PU.1
Authors: Minderjahn Julia , Schmidt Andreas , Fuchs Andreas , Schill Rudolf , Raithel Johanna , Babina Magda , Schmidl Christian , Gebhard Claudia , Schmidhofer Sandra , Mendes Karina , Ratermann Anna , Glatz Dagmar , Nützel Margit , Edinger Matthias , Hoffmann Petra , Spang Rainer , Längst Gernot , Imhof Axel , Rehli Michael
Published: January 2020

Establishing gene regulatory networks during differentiation or reprogramming requires master or pioneer transcription factors (TFs) such as PU.1, a prototype master TF of hematopoietic lineage differentiation. To systematically determine molecular features that control its activity, here we analyze DNA-binding in vitro and genome-wide in vivo across different cell types with native or ectopic PU.1 expression. Although PU.1, in contrast to classical pioneer factors, is unable to access nucleosomal target sites in vitro, ectopic induction of PU.1 leads to the extensive remodeling of chromatin and redistribution of partner TFs. De novo chromatin access, stable binding, and redistribution of partner TFs both require PU.1’s N-terminal acidic activation domain and its ability to recruit SWI/SNF remodeling complexes, suggesting that the latter may collect and distribute co-associated TFs in conjunction with the non-classical pioneer TF PU.1.
Insulated conjugated bimetallopolymer with sigmoidal response by dual self-controlling system as a biomimetic material
Authors: Masai Hiroshi , Yokoyama Takuya , Miyagishi Hiromichi V. , Liu Maning , Tachibana Yasuhiro , Fujihara Tetsuaki , Tsuji Yasushi , Terao Jun
Published: January 2020

Biological systems are known to spontaneously adjust the functioning of neurotransmitters, ion channels, and the immune system, being promoted or regulated through allosteric effects or inhibitors, affording non-linear responses to external stimuli. Here we report that an insulated conjugated bimetallopolymer, in which Ru(II) and Pt(II) complexes are mutually connected with insulated conjugations, exhibits phosphorescence in response to CO gas. The net profile corresponds to a sigmoidal response with a dual self-controlling system, where drastic changes were exhibited at two threshold concentrations. The first threshold for activation of the system is triggered by the depolymerization of the non-radiative conjugated polymer to luminescent monomers, while the second one for regulation is triggered by the switch in the rate-determining step of the Ru complex. Such a molecular design with cooperative multiple transition metals would provide routes for the development of higher-ordered artificial molecular systems bearing bioinspired responses with autonomous modulation.
Atomically dispersed Pt–N4 sites as efficient and selective electrocatalysts for the chlorine evolution reaction
Authors: Lim Taejung , Jung Gwan Yeong , Kim Jae Hyung , Park Sung O , Park Jaehyun , Kim Yong-Tae , Kang Seok Ju , Jeong Hu Young , Kwak Sang Kyu , Joo Sang Hoon
Published: January 2020

Chlorine evolution reaction (CER) is a critical anode reaction in chlor-alkali electrolysis. Although precious metal-based mixed metal oxides (MMOs) have been widely used as CER catalysts, they suffer from the concomitant generation of oxygen during the CER. Herein, we demonstrate that atomically dispersed Pt−N4sites doped on a carbon nanotube (Pt1/CNT) can catalyse the CER with excellent activity and selectivity. The Pt1/CNT catalyst shows superior CER activity to a Pt nanoparticle-based catalyst and a commercial Ru/Ir-based MMO catalyst. Notably, Pt1/CNT exhibits near 100% CER selectivity even in acidic media, with low Cl−concentrations (0.1 M), as well as in neutral media, whereas the MMO catalyst shows substantially lower CER selectivity. In situ electrochemical X-ray absorption spectroscopy reveals the direct adsorption of Cl−on Pt−N4sites during the CER. Density functional theory calculations suggest the PtN4C12site as the most plausible active site structure for the CER.
Glycosyl ortho-(1-phenylvinyl)benzoates versatile glycosyl donors for highly efficient synthesis of both O-glycosides and nucleosides
Authors: Li Penghua , He Haiqing , Zhang Yunqin , Yang Rui , Xu Lili , Chen Zixi , Huang Yingying , Bao Limei , Xiao Guozhi
Published: January 2020

Both of O-glycosides and nucleosides are important biomolecules with crucial rules in numerous biological processes. Chemical synthesis is an efficient and scalable method to produce well-defined and pure carbohydrate-containing molecules for deciphering their functions and developing therapeutic agents. However, the development of glycosylation methods for efficient synthesis of both O-glycosides and nucleosides is one of the long-standing challenges in chemistry. Here, we report a highly efficient and versatile glycosylation method for efficient synthesis of both O-glycosides and nucleosides, which uses glycosyl ortho-(1-phenylvinyl)benzoates as donors. This glycosylation protocol enjoys the various features, including readily prepared and stable donors, cheap and readily available promoters, mild reaction conditions, good to excellent yields, and broad substrate scopes. In particular, the applications of the current glycosylation protocol are demonstrated by one-pot synthesis of several bioactive oligosaccharides and highly efficient synthesis of nucleosides drugs capecitabine, galocitabine and doxifluridine.
Comprehensive transcriptome data for endemic Schizothoracinae fish in the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Zhou Chaowei , Xiao Shijun , Liu Yanchao , Mou Zhenbo , Zhou Jianshe , Pan Yingzi , Zhang Chi , Wang Jiu , Deng Xingxing , Zou Ming , Liu Haiping
Published: January 2020

The Schizothoracinae fishes, endemic species in the Tibetan Plateau, are considered as ideal models for highland adaptation and speciation investigation. Despite several transcriptome studies for highland fishes have been reported before, the transcriptome information of Schizothoracinae is still lacking. To obtain comprehensive transcriptome data for Schizothoracinae, the transcriptome of a total of 183 samples from 14 representative Schizothoracinae species, were sequenced and de novo assembled. As a result, about 1,363 Gb transcriptome clean data was obtained. After the assembly, we obtain 76,602–154,860 unigenes for each species with sequence N50 length of 1,564–2,143 bp. More than half of the unigenes were functionally annotated by public databases. The Schizothoracinae fishes in this work exhibited diversified ecological distributions, phenotype characters and feeding habits; therefore, the comprehensive transcriptome data of those species provided valuable information for the environmental adaptation and speciation of Schizothoracinae in the Tibetan Plateau.
Four high-quality draft genome assemblies of the marine heterotrophic nanoflagellate Cafeteria roenbergensis
Authors: Hackl Thomas , Martin Roman , Barenhoff Karina , Duponchel Sarah , Heider Dominik , Fischer Matthias G.
Published: January 2020

The heterotrophic stramenopile Cafeteria roenbergensis is a globally distributed marine bacterivorous protist. This unicellular flagellate is host to the giant DNA virus CroV and the virophage mavirus. We sequenced the genomes of four cultured C. roenbergensis strains and generated 23.53 Gb of Illumina MiSeq data (99–282 × coverage per strain) and 5.09 Gb of PacBio RSII data (13–45 × coverage). Using the Canu assembler and customized curation procedures, we obtained high-quality draft genome assemblies with a total length of 34–36 Mbp per strain and contig N50 lengths of 148 kbp to 464 kbp. The C. roenbergensis genome has a GC content of ~70%, a repeat content of ~28%, and is predicted to contain approximately 7857–8483 protein-coding genes based on a combination of de novo, homology-based and transcriptome-supported annotation. These first high-quality genome assemblies of a bicosoecid fill an important gap in sequenced stramenopile representatives and enable a more detailed evolutionary analysis of heterotrophic protists.
High-throughput identification of protein functional similarities using a gene-expression-based siRNA screen
Authors: Neilsen Beth K. , Kelly David L. , Chakraborty Binita , Kim Hyun Seok , White Michael A. , Lewis Robert E. , Fisher Kurt W.
Published: January 2020

A gene expression-based siRNA screen was used to evaluate functional similarity between genetic perturbations to identify functionally similar proteins. A siRNA library (siGenome library, Dharmacon) consisting of multiple siRNAs per gene that have been pooled in to one well per gene was arrayed in a 384-well format and used to individually target 14,335 proteins for depletion in HCT116 colon cancer cells. For each protein depletion, the gene expression of eight genes was quantified using the multiplexed Affymetrix Quantigene 2.0 assay in technical triplicate. As a proof of concept, six genes (BNIP3, NDRG1, ALDOC, LOXL2, ACSL5, BNIP3L) whose expression pattern reliably reflect the disruption of the molecular scaffold KSR1 were measured upon each protein depletion. The remaining two genes (PPIB and HPRT) are housekeeping genes used for normalization. The gene expression signatures from this screen can be used to estimate the functional similarity between any two proteins and successfully identified functional relationships for specific proteins such as KSR1 and more generalized processes, such as autophagy.
Reference values for resting and post exercise hemodynamic parameters in a 6–18 year old population
Authors: Havasi Katalin , Maróti Zoltán , Jakab Andrea , Raskó István , Kalmár Tibor , Bereczki Csaba
Published: January 2020

This database is the first large dataset of haemodynamic changes of normal-weight pupils during a field exercise test. Here, we present a dataset for anthropometric and hemodynamic parameters measured both during relaxation and after exercise containing 1,173,342 data segments from 65,345 acquisition points of 10,894 normal weight subjects, covering an age range of 6–18 years collected in a course of 12 years. Data acquisition was carried out under standardised measuring conditions and specifications. Hemodynamic parameters were measured in the normal-weight population with a new and simple Fit-Test which could facilitate new projects worldwide to study and compare cardiovascular fitness.
Modelling regional futures at decadal scale: application to the Kimberley region
Authors: Boschetti Fabio , Lozano-Montes Hector , Stelfox Brad
Published: January 2020

We address the question of how to provide meaningful scientific information to support environmental decision making at the regional scale and at the temporal scale of several decades in a network of marine parks in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. Where environmental sustainability is affected by slow-dynamics climate change processes and one-off investments in large infrastructure which can affect a region for decades to come, both strategic and reactive planning is necessary and prediction becomes as urgent as standard adaptive management. At the interface between future studies, socio-economic modelling and environmental modelling, we define 18 scenarios of economic development and climate change impacts and five management strategies. We explore these potential futures using coupled models of terrestrial and marine ecosystem dynamics. We obtain a projection of the Kimberley marine system to the year 2050, conditional on the chosen scenarios and management strategies. Our results suggest that climate change, not economic development, is the largest factor affecting the future of marine ecosystems in the Kimberley region, with site-attached species such as reef fish at greatest risk. These same species also benefit most from more stringent management strategies, especially expansion of sanctuary zones and Marine Protected Areas.
Kidney transplant monitoring by urinary flow cytometry: Biomarker combination of T cells, renal tubular epithelial cells, and podocalyxin-positive cells detects rejection
Authors: Goerlich Nina , Brand Hannah Antonia , Langhans Valerie , Tesch Sebastian , Schachtner Thomas , Koch Benjamin , Paliege Alexander , Schneider Wolfgang , Grützkau Andreas , Reinke Petra , Enghard Philipp
Published: January 2020

Creatinine and proteinuria are used to monitor kidney transplant patients. However, renal biopsies are needed to diagnose renal graft rejection. Here, we assessed whether the quantification of different urinary cells would allow non-invasive detection of rejection. Urinary cell numbers of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, monocytes/macrophages, tubular epithelial cells (TEC), and podocalyxin(PDX)-positive cells were determined using flow cytometry and were compared to biopsy results. Urine samples of 63 renal transplant patients were analyzed. Patients with transplant rejection had higher amounts of urinary T cells than controls; however, patients who showed worsening graft function without rejection had similar numbers of T cells. T cells correlated with histological findings (interstitial inflammation p = 0.0005, r = 0.70; tubulitis p = 0.006, r = 0.58). Combining the amount of urinary T cells and TEC, or T cells and PDX+ cells, yielded a significant segregation of patients with rejection from patients without rejection (all p < 0.01, area under the curve 0.89–0.91). Urinary cell populations analyzed by flow cytometry have the potential to introduce new monitoring methods for kidney transplant patients. The combination of urinary T cells, TEC, and PDX-positive cells may allow non-invasive detection of transplant rejection.
Initial report of γ-aminobutyric acidergic locomotion regulatory system and its 3-mercaptopropionic acid-sensitivity in metamorphic juvenile of sea urchin, Hemicentrotus pulcherrimus
Authors: Katow Hideki , Yoshida Hiromi , Kiyomoto Masato
Published: January 2020

The γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) signal transmission system (GSTS) contributes to larval swimming through the regulation of ciliary beating. However, whether this system also contributes to the primary podia (PP)-generated motility of juveniles remained unclear. The present study aimed to elucidate the involvement of the GSTS in the motility of metamorphic juveniles (juveniles) (1) by immunohistochemically elucidating the location of molecular constituents of the PP, and (2) by inhibiting the activity of GΑΒΑ decarboxylase (GAD) with 3-mercaptopropionic acid (3-MPA). During metamorphosis, the echinus rudiment protrudes its PP out of the body surface in 8-arm plutei. The PP expresses immunopositive signal (-IS) of GAD, GABA, GABAA receptor and tropomyosin, and is constituted with the GABA-IS negative distal tip and the GABA/GAD-IS gaiter region. The latter radiates distal projections to the disc that contains a GAD-IS cellular network. The juvenile body cavity houses a GABA/βIII-tubulin-IS Penta-radial ring (PrR) that extends branches into each PP and several bridges to the GAD/GABA-IS Penta-radial plate (PrP) on the oral side but does not reach to the gaiter region. 3-MPA reversibly inhibits the juvenile motility and GABA-IS expression in the PrR/PrP complex. This indicates that the complex is the major contributor to the GABAergic motility in juveniles.
Prevalence and predictors of proton pump inhibitor partial response in gastroesophageal reflux disease in systemic sclerosis: a prospective study
Authors: Foocharoen Chingching , Chunlertrith Kitti , Mairiang Pisaln , Mahakkanukrauh Ajanee , Suwannaroj Siraphop , Namvijit Suwassa , Wantha Orathai , Nanagara Ratanavadee
Published: January 2020

Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) twice daily dosing is a standard therapy for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in systemic sclerosis (SSc) but there is no data on its response rate or the predictors of PPI-partial response GERD. Aims were to determine the prevalence of PPI-partial response GERD in SSc and to define its predictors. A prospective study was conducted in SSc patients with GERD. The patients were treated with omeprazole 20 mg bid for 4 weeks. The severity of symptom-grading by visual analogue scale (VAS) and frequency of symptoms by frequency scale for symptoms of GERD (FSSG) were assessed at baseline and 4 weeks after treatment. PPI-partial response GERD was defined as less than 50% improvement in the VAS for severity of symptom as well as acid reflux score by FSSG after treatment. According to the sample size calculation, 243 SSc-GERD patients were enrolled; of whom 166 (68.3%) had the diffuse cutaneous SSc. PPI-partial response GERD was found in 131 SSc patients (prevalence 53.9%; 95%CI 47.4–60.3). The multivariate analysis revealed that esophageal dysphagia was an only predictor the PPI-partial response GERD (OR 1.82; 95%CI 1.01–3.29) while neither SSc subset nor severity of skin tightness were significantly associated with PPI-partial response GERD. Half of the SSc patients were PPI-partial response GERD. Esophageal dysphagia was the only predictor of PPI-partial response GERD in SSc patients. Screening for dysphagia before starting GERD treatment is helpful for assessment the risk of PPI refractoriness GERD in SSc patients.
Pollination Mechanisms are Driving Orchid Distribution in Space
Authors: Štípková Zuzana , Tsiftsis Spyros , Kindlmann Pavel
Published: January 2020

Understanding the abundance and distribution patterns of species at large spatial scales is one of the goals of biogeography and macroecology, as it helps researchers and authorities in designing conservation measures for endangered species. Orchids, one of the most endangered groups of plants, have a complicated system of pollination mechanisms. Their survival strongly depends on pollination success, which then determines their presence and distribution in space. Here we concentrate on how pollination mechanisms (presence/absence of nectar) are associated with orchid species density and mean niche breadth along an altitudinal gradient in six different phytogeographical regions in the Czech Republic. We found differences between these regions in terms of orchid species numbers and density. The trend (hump-shaped curve) in species density of nectarless and nectariferous orchids were very similar in all phytogeographical regions, peaking between 300–900 m. The trend strongly depends on habitat cover and pollinator availability. In general, the most specialist species of orchids were found from low to middle altitudes. The association of altitude with the richness of orchid flora is much stronger than that with the biogeography. Climate change is a factor that should not be neglected, as it may affect the presence/absence of many species in the future.
Implications of C1q/TNF-related protein superfamily in patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Zhang Yanwei , Liu Caihong , Liu Jing , Guo Rui , Yan Zheyi , Liu Wenxia , Lau Wayne Bond , Jiao Xiangying , Cao Jimin , Xu Kun , Jia Yongping , Ma Xinliang , Wang Yajing
Published: January 2020

The C1q complement/TNF-related protein superfamily (CTRPs) displays differential effects on the regulation of metabolic homeostasis, governing cardiovascular function. However, whether and how they may serve as predictor/pro-diagnosis factors for assessing the risks of coronary artery disease (CAD) remains controversial. Therefore, we performed a clinical study to elaborate on the implication of CTRPs (CTRP1, CTRP5, CTRP7, and CTRP15) in CAD. CTRP1 were significantly increased, whereas CTRP7 and CTRP15 levels were decreased in CAD patients compared to the non-CAD group. Significant differences in CTRP1 levels were discovered between the single- and triple-vascular-vessel lesion groups. ROC analysis revealed that CTRP7 and CTRP15 may serve as CAD markers, while CTRP1 may serve as a marker for the single-vessel lesion of CAD. CTRP1 and CTRP5 can serve as markers for the triple-vessel lesion. CTRP1 may serve as an independent risk predictor for triple-vessel lesion, whereas CTRP15 alteration may serve for a single-vessel lesion of CAD. CTRP1 may serve as a novel superior biomarker for diagnosis of severity of vessel-lesion of CAD patients. CTRP7, CTRP15 may serve as more suitable biomarker for the diagnosis of CAD patients, whereas CTRP5 may serve as an independent predictor for CAD. These findings suggest CTRPs may be the superior predictive factors for the vascular lesion of CAD and represent novel therapeutic targets against CAD.
Pioneering Experience of Uniportal Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery for Anterior Release of Severe Thoracic Scoliosis
Authors: Hsu Cheng-Min , Wu Kuan-Wen , Lin Mong-Wei , Kuo Ken N. , Chang Jia-Feng , Wang Ting-Ming
Published: January 2020

The optimal way to treat severe thoracic scoliosis remains controversial. Compared with conventional procedures, the uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (UniVATS) rises in popularity in thoracic surgery because of less pain and faster recovery. This retrospective study aimed to apply UniVATS to treat severe thoracic scoliosis. Between October 2013 and March 2018, eight scoliotic patients with extremely large Cobb angle and profoundly limited flexibility underwent UniVATS for anterior release, followed by posterior instrumentation and fusion. The mean age at the time of surgery was 14.8 ± 2.4 years and the mean follow-up was 2.2 ± 1.3 years. The average levels of anterior thoracic discectomy and posterior fusion were 3.6 ± 0.7 and 11.5 ± 1.2, respectively. The mean coronal and sagittal correction rates were 70 ± 19% and 71 ± 23%, respectively. UniVATS contributed to minor access trauma (3-cm incision) with minimal blood loss, shorter operation time (75 ± 13 mins), less requirement of stay in the intensive care unit (0.3 ± 0.5 day) or chest tube placement (0.3 ± 0.7 day), speedier and narcotic-free recovery, and earlier ambulation within one day. This is the first study to assess the safety and efficacy of UniVATS in the treatment of severely stiff thoracic scoliosis, providing comparable surgical outcomes, less pain, faster recovery and superior cosmetic results without significant complications.
Biosensing extracellular vesicles: contribution of biomolecules in affinity-based methods for detection and isolation
Authors: Gaillard M. , Thuaire A. , Nonglaton G. , Agache V. , Roupioz Y. , Raillon C.
Published: January 2020

This Minireview focuses on the contribution of biomolecules used as ligands in affinity-based biosensors for the detection and isolation of Extracellular Vesicles (EVs).
Preparation of a chemically stable metal–organic framework and multi-walled carbon nanotube composite as a high-performance electrocatalyst for the detection of lead
Authors: Sun Xin , Chen Yuling , Xie Yao , Wang Lu , Wang Yang , Hu Xiaoya
Published: January 2020

The MWCNTs@UiO-66-NH2 composite was synthesized and used as a highly sensitive and robust electrochemical sensor for lead detection.
Photoanodes for water oxidation with visible light based on a pentacyclic quinoid organic dye enabling proton-coupled electron transfer
Authors: Volpato Giulia Alice , Marasi Martina , Gobbato Thomas , Valentini Francesca , Sabuzi Federica , Gagliardi Valeria , Bonetto Alessandro , Marcomini Antonio , Berardi Serena , Conte Valeria , Bonchio Marcella , Caramori Stefano , Galloni Pierluca , Sartorel Andrea
Published: January 2020

A novel pentacyclic quinoid photosensitizer with extended absorption in the visible region and enabling proton-coupled electron transfer is employed in photoelectrodes for water oxidation in combination with a ruthenium polyoxometalate catalyst.
Improved ion-diffusion performance by engineering an ordered mesoporous shell in hollow carbon nanospheres
Authors: Peng Jing , Zhang Weicai , Yu Peifeng , Pang Haibo , Zheng Mingtao , Dong Hanwu , Hu Hang , Xiao Yong , Liu Yingliang , Liang Yeru
Published: January 2020

A new kind of hollow carbon nanosphere with an ordered mesoporous shell structure is prepared and demonstrated to have improved ion-diffusion performances.
Aptamer-tethered self-assembled FRET-flares for microRNA imaging in living cancer cells
Authors: Wang Anmin , Lin Qing , Liu Shiyuan , Li Jing , Wang Jiaoli , Quan Ke , Yang Xiaohai , Huang Jin , Wang Kemin
Published: January 2020

We report an aptamer-tethered, self-assembled DNA nanowire as a multivalent vehicle for the intracellular delivery of FRET flares.
Transition path times in asymmetric barriers
Authors: Caraglio Michele , Sakaue Takahiro , Carlon Enrico
Published: January 2020

TPT distributions for asymmetric barriers are well-fitted by distributions generated by parabolic barriers but the fitted barrier height deviates from the right value.
Effect of crystallization on the electronic and optical properties of archetypical porphyrins
Authors: Malcıoğlu Osman Barış , Bechis Irene , Bockstedte Michel
Published: January 2020

Crystallization of archetypical porphyrins cause sizeable band gap renormalization and redshifts the optical transition except for the visible Q band.
Effects of interfacial adsorption configurations on dye-sensitized solar cell performance at the stoichiometric and defective TiO2 anatase (101) surfaces: a theoretical investigation
Authors: Yang Guang , Sui Guomin , Liang Yuxia , Xue Xiaodong , Feng Yaqing , Zhang Bao
Published: January 2020

Comparative analysis of interfacial electron injection and density of states was performed on a dye/TiO2 system with stoichiometric and defective surfaces.
Selective removal of natural organic matter during drinking water production changes the composition of disinfection by-products
Authors: Andersson Anna , Lavonen Elin , Harir Mourad , Gonsior Michael , Hertkorn Norbert , Schmitt-Kopplin Philippe , Kylin Henrik , Bastviken David
Published: January 2020

Disinfection by-products (DBPs) are potentially toxic compounds formed upon chemical disinfection of drinking water. This study evaluate how treatment approaches affect DBP formation and composition.
Metabolomics strategy reveals the osteogenic mechanism of yak (Bos grunniens) bone collagen peptides on ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis in rats
Authors: Ye Mengliang , Zhang Chunhui , Jia Wei , Shen Qingshan , Qin Xiaojie , Zhang Hongru , Zhu Lingyu
Published: January 2020

This is the first report on the positive effect and underlying mechanism of yak bone collagen peptides in the treatment of osteoporotic rats based on non-targeted metabolomics.
Pd@COF-QA: a phase transfer composite catalyst for aqueous Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction
Authors: Wang Jian-Cheng , Liu Cong-Xue , Kan Xuan , Wu Xiao-Wei , Kan Jing-Lan , Dong Yu-Bin
Published: January 2020

A COF-based phase transfer catalyst and its continuous flow-through reactor was prepared. The obtained Pd@COF-QA can highly promote the Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction in water under mild conditions even at gram scale level.
Facile fabrication of triphenylamine-based conjugated porous polymers and their application in organic degradation under visible light
Authors: Lan Lidan , Liu Fei , Dan Yi , Jiang Long
Published: January 2020

A facile fabrication method was developed for the one-pot synthesis of 1,3,5-triformylbenzene (TFB)-4,4′4′′-triaminotriphenylamine (TPA) and 1,3,5-triformylbenzene-terephthalaldehyde (TA) under ambient conditions via a Schiff-base reaction.
Microporous layered silicates: old but new microporous materials
Authors: Doustkhah Esmail , Ide Yusuke
Published: January 2020

The properties and applications of microporous layered silicates, having both intralayer micropores and interlayer spaces, are reviewed.