bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transport properties of complex plasma having a dust size distribution
Authors: Mishra S. K. , Misra Shikha
Published: February 2019

The transport properties of the complex plasma, comprising size distributed dust, kept under the influence of the external electric field, have been investigated. Accounting for the openness nature of the complex plasma, the kinetics has been developed on the basis of number and energy balance of the plasma constituents along with the dust charge balance. Implementing the uniform potential theory for the dust size distribution, the kinetic formulation has been used to configure the steady-state complex plasma composition and hence the transport features. A substantial departure of the plasma equilibrium from the dust free case is observed in the presence of size distributed dust; the altered density, temperature, and collision frequency of the electrons are the significant parameters, determining plasma transport. Electromagnetic opacity is predicted in the presence of an external electric field (steady/alternating) due to Ohmic heating in the case of dark plasma, while enhanced transparency is noticed for the field-free case. Furthermore, the propagation features of an em RF wave have been specified in terms of complex dielectric constant and refractive index of the complex plasma; the wave propagation and attenuation are found to be a significant function of the dust size distribution and amplitude.
Aziridination and aza-Wharton Reactions of Levoglucosenone
Authors: Ledingham Edward T. , Greatrex Ben W.
Published: February 2019

Efficient conditions have been developed for the diastereoselective aziridination of the biomass pyrolysis product (−)-levoglucosenone, via the reaction of primary aliphatic amines with 3-iodolevoglucosenone. In contrast to the reactions of aliphatic amines, the use of 4-methoxyaniline resulted in an aza-Michael-initiated dimerisation reaction, and 1,3-diphenylurea gave a 2-imidazolidinone. The aziridine products were transformed using the aza-Wharton reaction, affording novel sulfonamide and amine-substituted 6,8-dioxabicyclo[3.2.1]oct-3-enes with potential as sp3-rich chiral scaffolds.
Systematic study of the Australian plant bug genus Xasmasoma, gen. nov. (Insecta : Heteroptera : Miridae : Orthotylinae), including host plant and biogeographic analysis, and description of twelve new species
Authors: Cheng Marina , Cassis Gerasimos
Published: February 2019

A new Australian genus of Orthotylini, Xasmasoma, gen. nov. is described, with 12 new included species: X. acuminatus, sp. nov., X. agana, sp. nov., X. carrollae, sp. nov., X. celiae, sp. nov., X. chamelaucieaphila, sp. nov., X. mareeba, sp. nov., X. mimae, sp. nov., X. mungallala, sp. nov., X. nillinghoo, sp. nov., X. schuhi, sp. nov., X. silveirae, sp. nov. and X. woodstocki, sp. nov. These species were analysed phylogenetically using 25 morphology-based characters and molecular alignments (COI, 16S, 18S and 28S; 2096 base pairs), with the genus found to be monophyletic based on molecular, morphological and combined analyses. An analysis of host plant associations demonstrated no pattern of co-divergence and limited phylogenetic conservatism, aside from two subclades with respective Calytrix and Myrtaceae preferences. The biogeographic analysis revealed a south-western (South-west Interzone, Western Desert) area relationship, which is in distinction to the orthotyline genus Naranjakotta. The taxonomic component includes an identification key to species and diagnostic characters are illustrated, with detailed documentation of the male genitalia, and the genus uniquely possesses tile-like texture on the apex of the apophysis of the left paramere, and a single endosomal spicule.
Primary care experience of older Australians with chronic illness
Authors: Saunders Carla , Carter David , Brown James J.
Published: February 2019

This large (>1000) cross-sectional study investigates patient-reported primary care experiences of older people with chronic illness. Previous research has found that approximately half of patients with chronic illness receive optimal chronic illness care and outcomes in Australian general practice. A survey was administered via a double opt-in panel method to people aged ≥55 years who have one or more self-reported major chronic diseases (diabetes and/or chronic heart, kidney, lung, mental health and/or musculoskeletal conditions). Health professionals were found to be important to the majority of Australians surveyed. Well-known chronic illness support resources such as care plans and recalls/reminders were reported to be wanting by up to 50 per cent of respondents. Across all chronic illness groups, <42 per cent of respondents reported the provision of information on community resources and 25 per cent reported not having a sound understanding about their medications. Regular local surveys for older people with chronic illness would allow a timely understanding of primary care experiences, needs and preferences of this group, to support quality improvement and drive enhanced patient outcomes.
Stalls in Africa’s fertility decline partly result from disruptions in female education
Authors: Kebede Endale , Goujon Anne , Lutz Wolfgang
Published: February 2019

Significance

The future pace of fertility decline in sub-Saharan Africa is the main determinant of future world population growth and will have massive implications for Africa and the rest of the world, not least through international migration pressure and difficulties in meeting the sustainable development goals. In this context, there have been concerns about recent stalls in the fertility decline in some African countries. Our findings suggest that these stalls are in part explained by earlier stalls in female education and that less-educated women are more vulnerable to adverse period conditions. This has important implications for setting policy priorities.
Scaling up analogical innovation with crowds and AI
Authors: Kittur Aniket , Yu Lixiu , Hope Tom , Chan Joel , Lifshitz-Assaf Hila , Gilon Karni , Ng Felicia , Kraut Robert E. , Shahaf Dafna
Published: February 2019

Analogy—the ability to find and apply deep structural patterns across domains—has been fundamental to human innovation in science and technology. Today there is a growing opportunity to accelerate innovation by moving analogy out of a single person’s mind and distributing it across many information processors, both human and machine. Doing so has the potential to overcome cognitive fixation, scale to large idea repositories, and support complex problems with multiple constraints. Here we lay out a perspective on the future of scalable analogical innovation and first steps using crowds and artificial intelligence (AI) to augment creativity that quantitatively demonstrate the promise of the approach, as well as core challenges critical to realizing this vision.
Correlation between tools for thinking; arts, crafts, and design avocations; and scientific achievement among STEMM professionals
Authors: Root-Bernstein Robert , Van Dyke Megan , Peruski Amber , Root-Bernstein Michele
Published: February 2019

Previous studies of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medical (STEMM) professionals have identified a common “mental toolkit” composed of 13 “tools for thinking” that STEMM professionals use in their problem raising and problem solving. The present research surveyed a convenience sample of 225 STEMM professionals to investigate whether these “thinking tools” are correlated with STEMM achievement measured variously as patents filed or licensed, companies founded, number of papers and books published, and copyrights assigned. Some mental skills such as modeling and playing are significantly correlated with patent filings and licenses, and others are correlated with different measures of STEMM achievement. Previous research has also demonstrated that some of these thinking tools, most notably visual thinking skills, can be taught through various arts, crafts, and design (ACD) practices, resulting in significant improvements in STEMM learning outcomes. The present research therefore investigates in the survey pool whether ACD are associated with the same measures of STEMM achievement as thinking tool use. Correlations exist between use of some thinking tools and particular ACD avocations: Modeling and playing are correlated with persistent crafts avocations such as metalworking, woodworking, and mechanics, which are, in turn, significantly correlated with patent production. Most survey participants were explicitly aware of the connections between their ACD avocations; their STEMM work; and the tools, skills, and knowledge derived from the former. We conclude that integrating ACD with STEMM content by means of tools for thinking may be an effective way to achieve improved STEMM learning outcomes.
Branches from the same tree: The case for integration in higher education
Authors: Skorton David
Published: February 2019

The nature of work is changing rapidly in the digital age, increasing the demand for skills in specific disciplines. Across the United States and beyond, this evolution has led to an increased emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education at every level. Meanwhile, at US institutions of higher education, the proportion of undergraduate students who earn a degree in the humanities is declining. However, while the public discussion often pits the disciplines against one another, the sciences, arts, and humanities are—as Albert Einstein once wrote—“branches of the same tree” [(2006)
The Einstein Reader
]. They are mutually reinforcing. Therefore, the best way to prepare the next generation for the future of work, life, and citizenship is to provide broad, holistic educational experiences that integrate the STEM disciplines with the arts and humanities. A new study from the Board on Higher Education and Workforce of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine bolsters the case for such an approach, finding considerable evidence that the mutual integration of disciplines leads to improved educational and career outcomes for undergraduate and graduate students.
Molecular basis for AU-rich element recognition and dimerization by the HuR C-terminal RRM
Authors: Ripin Nina , Boudet Julien , Duszczyk Malgorzata M. , Hinniger Alexandra , Faller Michael , Krepl Miroslav , Gadi Abhilash , Schneider Robert J. , Šponer Jiří , Meisner-Kober Nicole C. , Allain Frédéric H.-T.
Published: February 2019

Human antigen R (HuR) is a key regulator of cellular mRNAs containing adenylate/uridylate–rich elements (AU-rich elements; AREs). These are a major class of
cis
elements within 3′ untranslated regions, targeting these mRNAs for rapid degradation. HuR contains three RNA recognition motifs (RRMs): a tandem RRM1 and 2, followed by a flexible linker and a C-terminal RRM3. While RRM1 and 2 are structurally characterized, little is known about RRM3. Here we present a 1.9-Å-resolution crystal structure of RRM3 bound to different ARE motifs. This structure together with biophysical methods and cell-culture assays revealed the mechanism of RRM3 ARE recognition and dimerization. While multiple RNA motifs can be bound, recognition of the canonical AUUUA pentameric motif is possible by binding to two registers. Additionally, RRM3 forms homodimers to increase its RNA binding affinity. Finally, although HuR stabilizes ARE-containing RNAs, we found that RRM3 counteracts this effect, as shown in a cell-based ARE reporter assay and by qPCR with native HuR mRNA targets containing multiple AUUUA motifs, possibly by competing with RRM12.
IL-27 confers a protumorigenic activity of regulatory T cells via CD39
Authors: Park Young-Jun , Ryu Heeju , Choi Garam , Kim Byung-Seok , Hwang Eun Sook , Kim Hun Sik , Chung Yeonseok
Published: February 2019

Significance

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) inhibit autoimmune responses and are essential for immune homeostasis. By contrast, in settings of cancerous inflammation, Tregs represent a strong protumorigenic immune cell population via the incapacitation of various tumoricidal immune cells. By using multiple gene-deficient mouse systems, we show that IL-27 specifically induces ectonucleotidase CD39 expression on tumor-infiltrating Tregs in a STAT1-dependent manner. Protumorigenic activity of Tregs is significantly ameliorated by inhibiting CD39. Lack of IL-27Ra prevents CD39 upregulation on Tregs, which rescues cytotoxic CD8
+
T cells from Treg-mediated inhibition in tumor tissue. Our findings unveil a IL-27–STAT1–CD39 axis as a crucial mechanism for the protumorigenic function of Tregs. Targeting this new molecular pathway may facilitate the development of antitumor therapeutic approaches.
Engineered resistance to Zika virus in transgenic
Aedes aegypti
expressing a polycistronic cluster of synthetic small RNAs
Authors: Buchman Anna , Gamez Stephanie , Li Ming , Antoshechkin Igor , Li Hsing-Han , Wang Hsin-Wei , Chen Chun-Hong , Klein Melissa J. , Duchemin Jean-Bernard , Paradkar Prasad N. , Akbari Omar S.
Published: February 2019

Recent Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreaks have highlighted the necessity for development of novel vector control strategies to combat arboviral transmission, including genetic versions of the sterile insect technique, artificial infection with
Wolbachia
to reduce population size and/or vectoring competency, and gene drive-based methods. Here, we describe the development of mosquitoes synthetically engineered to impede vector competence to ZIKV. We demonstrate that a polycistronic cluster of engineered synthetic small RNAs targeting ZIKV is expressed and fully processed in
Aedes aegypti
, ensuring the formation of mature synthetic small RNAs in the midgut where ZIKV resides in the early stages of infection. Critically, we demonstrate that engineered
Ae. aegypti
mosquitoes harboring the anti-ZIKV transgene have significantly reduced viral infection, dissemination, and transmission rates of ZIKV. Taken together, these compelling results provide a promising path forward for development of effective genetic-based ZIKV control strategies, which could potentially be extended to curtail other arboviruses.
Design–functionality relationships for adhesion/growth-regulatory galectins
Authors: Ludwig Anna-Kristin , Michalak Malwina , Xiao Qi , Gilles Ulrich , Medrano Francisco J. , Ma Hanyue , FitzGerald Forrest G. , Hasley William D. , Melendez-Davila Adriel , Liu Matthew , Rahimi Khosrow , Kostina Nina Yu , Rodriguez-Emmenegger Cesar , Möller Martin , Lindner Ingo , Kaltner Herbert , Cudic Mare , Reusch Dietmar , Kopitz Jürgen , Romero Antonio , Oscarson Stefan , Klein Michael L. , Gabius Hans-Joachim , Percec Virgil
Published: February 2019

Significance

Glycan-lectin recognition is vital to embryogenesis, and progression in common diseases such as cancer and osteoarthritis. However, the rules governing specificity for the functional pairing and postbinding events are not yet understood, even though human lectins have been thoroughly characterized structurally. Herein, we employ protein engineering to produce new types of variants via redesign of modular lectin architecture. Comparative assays with cells (for growth regulation) and surface-programmable nanovesicles (for bridging) revealed qualitative effector/antagonist changes caused by topological switching, using human galectins-1 and -3 as a test case. In addition to identifying galectin-3’s unique chimera-type design as a means to enable functional antagonism between galectins, this approach generates new promising tools for imaging studies on lattices and for innovative therapeutic approaches.
Froghoppers jump from smooth plant surfaces by piercing them with sharp spines
Authors: Goetzke Hanns Hagen , Pattrick Jonathan G. , Federle Walter
Published: February 2019

Significance

Attachment mechanisms of climbing animals provide inspiration for biomimetics, but many natural adaptations are still unexplored. Animals are known to grip by interlocking claws with rough surfaces, or engaging adhesive pads on smooth substrates. Here we report that insects can use a third, fundamentally different attachment mechanism on plant surfaces. When accelerating for jumps, froghoppers produce traction by piercing plant surfaces with sharp metal-enriched spines on their hind legs, deforming the cuticle plastically and leaving behind microscopic holes, like a biological nanoindenter. This mechanism depends on the substrate’s hardness, and requires special adaptations of the cuticle at the spine tips. Piercing may represent a widespread attachment strategy among plant-living insects, promising inspiration for novel robotic grippers and climbers.
Ca
2+
allostery in PTH-receptor signaling
Authors: White Alex D. , Fang Fei , Jean-Alphonse Frédéric G. , Clark Lisa J. , An Hyun-Jung , Liu Hongda , Zhao Yang , Reynolds Shelley L. , Lee Sihoon , Xiao Kunhong , Sutkeviciute Ieva , Vilardaga Jean-Pierre
Published: February 2019

Significance

Blood Ca
2+
homeostasis is maintained by the actions of the parathyroid hormone (PTH) on its cognate receptor PTHR. PTH binding to PTHR mediates prolonged adenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) responses in cells after receptor internalization. Here, we show that extracellular Ca
2+
prolongs the residence time of ligands on the receptor, consequently, increasing both the duration of receptor activation and cAMP signaling. This positive Ca
2+
allostery is lost for the PTH mutant R25C, recently identified as a new cause of hypocalcemia in humans. Using mass spectrometry approaches, we identify acidic clusters within the first extracellular loop of PTHR as determinants of Ca
2+
allostery and endosomal cAMP signaling. These findings provide insight into the molecular etiology of hypocalcemia and disease relevance of endosomal cAMP signaling.
Most viral peptides displayed by class I MHC on infected cells are immunogenic
Authors: Croft Nathan P. , Smith Stewart A. , Pickering Jana , Sidney John , Peters Bjoern , Faridi Pouya , Witney Matthew J. , Sebastian Prince , Flesch Inge E. A. , Heading Sally L. , Sette Alessandro , La Gruta Nicole L. , Purcell Anthony W. , Tscharke David C.
Published: February 2019

CD8+T cells are essential effectors in antiviral immunity, recognizing short virus-derived peptides presented by MHC class I (pMHCI) on the surface of infected cells. However, the fraction of viral pMHCI on infected cells that are immunogenic has not been shown for any virus. To approach this fundamental question, we used peptide sequencing by high-resolution mass spectrometry to identify more than 170 vaccinia virus pMHCI presented on infected mouse cells. Next, we screened each peptide for immunogenicity in multiple virus-infected mice, revealing a wide range of immunogenicities. A surprisingly high fraction (>80%) of pMHCI were immunogenic in at least one infected mouse, and nearly 40% were immunogenic across more than half of the mice screened. The high number of peptides found to be immunogenic and the distribution of responses across mice give us insight into the specificity of antiviral CD8+T cell responses.
Movement dynamics of divisome proteins and PBP2x:FtsW in cells of
Streptococcus pneumoniae
Authors: Perez Amilcar J. , Cesbron Yann , Shaw Sidney L. , Bazan Villicana Jesus , Tsui Ho-Ching T. , Boersma Michael J. , Ye Ziyun A. , Tovpeko Yanina , Dekker Cees , Holden Seamus , Winkler Malcolm E.
Published: February 2019

Significance

This study answers two long-standing questions about FtsZ dynamics and its relationship to septal peptidoglycan (PG) synthesis in
Streptococcus pneumoniae
. In previous models, FtsZ concertedly moves from midcell septa to MapZ rings that have reached the equators of daughter cells. Instead, the results presented here show that FtsZ, FtsA, and EzrA filaments/bundles move continuously out from early septa as part of MapZ rings. In addition, this study establishes that the movement of bPBP2x:FtsW complexes in septal PG synthesis depends on and likely mirrors new PG synthesis and is not correlated with the treadmilling of FtsZ filaments/bundles. These findings are consistent with a mechanism where septal FtsZ rings organize directional movement of bPBP2x:FtsW complexes dependent upon PG substrate availability.
Inositol hexakisphosphate kinase 3 promotes focal adhesion turnover via interactions with dynein intermediate chain 2
Authors: Rojas Tomas , Cheng Weiwei , Gao Zhe , Liu Xiaoqi , Wang Yakun , Malla Adarsha P. , Chin Alfred C. , Romer Lewis H. , Snyder Solomon H. , Fu Chenglai
Published: February 2019

Significance

Cells express a family of three inositol hexakisphosphate kinases (IP6Ks), whose functions depend on the intracellular microenvironment. We find that IP6K3 is enriched at the migrating leading edge of cell membranes, where IP6K3 physiologically interacts with protein dynein intermediate chain 2 (DIC2). The cell membrane localizations of IP6K3 and DIC2 are interdependent. At the cell membrane, IP6K3 promotes cell motility via influences on the turnover of cell adhesions. Deletion of IP6K3 impairs neuronal cell migration and elicits brain malformation.
Calcineurin dephosphorylates Kelch-like 3, reversing phosphorylation by angiotensin II and regulating renal electrolyte handling
Authors: Ishizawa Kenichi , Wang Qin , Li Jinping , Yamazaki Osamu , Tamura Yoshifuru , Fujigaki Yoshihide , Uchida Shunya , Lifton Richard P. , Shibata Shigeru
Published: February 2019

Significance

Calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) are potent immunosuppressants; hypertension and hyperkalemia are common adverse effects. Activation of the renal Na-Cl cotransporter (NCC) is implicated in this toxicity; however, the mechanism is unknown. CNIs’ renal effects mimic the hypertension and hyperkalemia resulting from mutations in WNK kinases or in KLHL3-CUL3 ubiquitin ligase. WNKs activate NCC and are degraded by ubiquitylation upon their binding to KLHL3. The binding of WNKs to KLHL3 is prevented by KLHL3 mutations or by PKC-mediated KLHL3 phosphorylation at serine 433. This work shows that calcineurin dephosphorylates KLHL3
S433
, promoting WNK4 degradation. Conversely, CNIs inhibit KLHL3
S433
dephosphorylation, preventing WNK degradation. These findings implicate calcineurin in the normal regulation of KLHL3’s binding of WNK4 and identify a direct target causing CNI-induced pathology.
Comparative transcriptomics method to infer gene coexpression networks and its applications to maize and rice leaf transcriptomes
Authors: Chang Yao-Ming , Lin Hsin-Hung , Liu Wen-Yu , Yu Chun-Ping , Chen Hsiang-June , Wartini Putu Puja , Kao Yi-Ying , Wu Yeh-Hua , Lin Jinn-Jy , Lu Mei-Yeh Jade , Tu Shih-Long , Wu Shu-Hsing , Shiu Shin-Han , Ku Maurice S. B. , Li Wen-Hsiung
Published: February 2019

Time-series transcriptomes of a biological process obtained under different conditions are useful for identifying the regulators of the process and their regulatory networks. However, such data are 3D (gene expression, time, and condition), and there is currently no method that can deal with their full complexity. Here, we developed a method that avoids time-point alignment and normalization between conditions. We applied it to analyze time-series transcriptomes of developing maize leaves under light–dark cycles and under total darkness and obtained eight time-ordered gene coexpression networks (TO-GCNs), which can be used to predict upstream regulators of any genes in the GCNs. One of the eight TO-GCNs is light-independent and likely includes all genes involved in the development of Kranz anatomy, which is a structure crucial for the high efficiency of photosynthesis in C4plants. Using this TO-GCN, we predicted and experimentally validated a regulatory cascade upstream ofSHORTROOT1, a key Kranz anatomy regulator. Moreover, we applied the method to compare transcriptomes from maize and rice leaf segments and identified regulators of maize C4enzyme genes andRUBISCO SMALL SUBUNIT2. Our study provides not only a powerful method but also novel insights into the regulatory networks underlying Kranz anatomy development and C4photosynthesis.
Legionella pneumophila
translocated translation inhibitors are required for bacterial-induced host cell cycle arrest
Authors: Sol Asaf , Lipo Erion , de Jesús-Díaz Dennise A. , Murphy Connor , Devereux Mildred , Isberg Ralph R.
Published: February 2019

Significance

The host cell cycle regulatory proteins control
Legionella pneumophila
growth. In particular, bacterial replication is depressed in S phase. This indicates that bacterial control of the host cell cycle can limit exposure of the pathogen to antimicrobial events that are cycle-specific. Here we uncovered bacterial factors that induce host cell cycle arrest by inhibiting host protein synthesis and preventing S-phase transition. These data are consistent with S-phase toxicity serving as an important antimicrobial response that limits growth of some intracellular pathogens. Moreover, identification of microbial factors that block cell cycle progression and uncovering host cell cycle partners are candidates for future drug development. Our data point to a unifying role of the cell cycle in multiple disease processes.
Mass spectrometry: From plasma proteins to mitochondrial membranes
Authors: Robinson Carol V.
Published: February 2019

Significance

Following initial discoveries of noncovalent associations surviving in the gas phase, only a few practitioners pursued this research area. Today scientists around the world are using these approaches to ascertain the heterogeneity and stoichiometry of proteins within complexes. Recent developments further highlight opportunities for studying the effects of protein glycosylation on antibody–antigen interactions and drug binding, as well as site-directed mutagenesis and posttranslational modification on membrane protein interfaces. As a result of many developments over the last two decades, mass spectrometry of protein complexes has exploded and is now undertaken not just in dedicated research laboratories in academia, but also in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. It is therefore timely to trace the history of these developments in this personal perspective.
Phosphorylation-mediated activation of mouse Xkr8 scramblase for phosphatidylserine exposure
Authors: Sakuragi Takaharu , Kosako Hidetaka , Nagata Shigekazu
Published: February 2019

Significance

Cell surface exposure of phosphatidylserine (PtdSer) is observed not only in apoptotic cells, but also in activated lymphocytes, activated platelets, capacitated sperm, aged erythrocytes, and some cancer cells. Xkr8, a membrane protein carrying 10 putative transmembrane segments, was originally identified as a scramblase that is activated by caspase-mediated cleavage during apoptosis. Here we show that mouse Xkr8 scramblase activity can be stimulated by kinase-mediated phosphorylation independent of the caspase-mediated cleavage, suggesting that Xkr8 may play a role in various biological processes to expose PtdSer.
CD4 receptor diversity in chimpanzees protects against SIV infection
Authors: Bibollet-Ruche Frederic , Russell Ronnie M. , Liu Weimin , Stewart-Jones Guillaume B. E. , Sherrill-Mix Scott , Li Yingying , Learn Gerald H. , Smith Andrew G. , Gondim Marcos V. P. , Plenderleith Lindsey J. , Decker Julie M. , Easlick Juliet L. , Wetzel Katherine S. , Collman Ronald G. , Ding Shilei , Finzi Andrés , Ayouba Ahidjo , Peeters Martine , Leendertz Fabian H. , van Schijndel Joost , Goedmakers Annemarie , Ton Els , Boesch Christophe , Kuehl Hjalmar , Arandjelovic Mimi , Dieguez Paula , Murai Mizuki , Colin Christelle , Koops Kathelijne , Speede Sheri , Gonder Mary K. , Muller Martin N. , Sanz Crickette M. , Morgan David B. , Atencia Rebecca , Cox Debby , Piel Alex K. , Stewart Fiona A. , Ndjango Jean-Bosco N. , Mjungu Deus , Lonsdorf Elizabeth V. , Pusey Anne E. , Kwong Peter D. , Sharp Paul M. , Shaw George M. , Hahn Beatrice H.
Published: February 2019

Human and simian immunodeficiency viruses (HIV/SIVs) use CD4 as the primary receptor to enter target cells. Here, we show that the chimpanzee CD4 is highly polymorphic, with nine coding variants present in wild populations, and that this diversity interferes with SIV envelope (Env)–CD4 interactions. Testing the replication fitness of SIVcpz strains in CD4
+
T cells from captive chimpanzees, we found that certain viruses were unable to infect cells from certain hosts. These differences were recapitulated in CD4 transfection assays, which revealed a strong association between CD4 genotypes and SIVcpz infection phenotypes. The most striking differences were observed for three substitutions (Q25R, Q40R, and P68T), with P68T generating a second N-linked glycosylation site (N66) in addition to an invariant N32 encoded by all chimpanzee CD4 alleles. In silico modeling and site-directed mutagenesis identified charged residues at the CD4–Env interface and clashes between CD4- and Env-encoded glycans as mechanisms of inhibition. CD4 polymorphisms also reduced Env-mediated cell entry of monkey SIVs, which was dependent on at least one D1 domain glycan. CD4 allele frequencies varied among wild chimpanzees, with high diversity in all but the western subspecies, which appeared to have undergone a selective sweep. One allele was associated with lower SIVcpz prevalence rates in the wild. These results indicate that substitutions in the D1 domain of the chimpanzee CD4 can prevent SIV cell entry. Although some SIVcpz strains have adapted to utilize these variants, CD4 diversity is maintained, protecting chimpanzees against infection with SIVcpz and other SIVs to which they are exposed.
Environmental impacts of domestic resource extraction in China
Authors: Zhao Shen , Wang He-Ming , Chen Wei-Qiang , Yang Dong , Liu Jing-Ru , Shi Feng
Published: February 2019

Introduction:
The rapid development of economy has led to extensive raw material consumption and relevant environmental damage in China. To analyze environmental impacts and identify materials resulting in these environmental effects via raw material extraction, we combine economy-wide material flow accounting and life-cycle analysis methods to estimate environmental impacts of Chinese domestic extraction (DE) during the period of 1992–2015. The relationship between these increasing environmental impacts and Chinese GDP was also explored by decoupling analysis.
Outcomes: 
Results show that Chinese DE increased by 372% during 1992–2015. The global warming potential, abiotic depletion potential, and respiratory inorganics of Chinese DE increased by 195%, 46%, and 408%, respectively. In terms of specific materials, extraction of iron ores, gravel and sand, and coal induced the most environmental impacts. The relationship between environmental impacts and Chinese GDP/DE was characterized by relative decoupling.
Conclusion:
To minimize the environmental impacts of extraction, we recommend that the Chinese government improve its extraction techniques and reduce excess demand for materials with large extraction such as iron ores, gravel and sand, and coal. We also recommend researching alternative materials for scarce resources like molybdenum, gold, and fluorite.
Assessment of Modern Technology Influence in the Transport Industry to Reduce Carbon Dioxide Emissions
Authors: Gorbunova A D , Anisimov I A , Fadyushin A A , Tishin M , Zakharov D A
Published: February 2019

The modern ecological direction of development of all industries leads to the creation and introduction of new technologies, in particular in the field of transport. At present, the introduction of wireless technologies as well as information and automated systems is observed in transport systems. This causes the creation of automated passenger cars. The article describes the analysis of previously completed studies that are aimed at creating models of logic and driver assistance systems. The results of researches, which were analyzed, showed that the implementation of fully automated systems in traffic conditions, where the largest share of cars is driven by people, is inefficient. Therefore, researchers consider connected systems, which include V2X technology. It includes the possibility of interaction between vehicles, its connection with the infrastructure, pedestrians and various devices. This eliminates the factor of “human error” in the case of driving a vehicle. In this study, an assessment of the impact of vehicle proportion, which is equipped a V2V system, and the maximum desired speed on the average delay time was carried out using simulation modeling. As a result, the authors found that an increase in the first factor, respectively, contributes to a decrease in the output indicator. The introduction of vehicles equipped with a V2V system reduces its fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions.
Population structure of Betula albosinensis and Betula platyphylla: evidence for hybridization and a cryptic lineage
Authors: Hu Ya-Nan , Zhao Lei , Buggs Richard J A , Zhang Xue-Min , Li Jun , Wang Nian
Published: February 2019

Background and Aims

Differences in local abundance and ploidy level are predicted to impact the direction of introgression between species. Here, we tested these hypotheses on populations of Betula albosinensis (red birch) and Betula platyphylla (white birch) which were thought to differ in ploidy level, the former being tetraploid and the latter diploid.

Methods

We sampled 391 birch individuals from nine localities in China, and classified them into species based on leaf morphology. Twelve nuclear microsatellite markers were genotyped in each sample, and analysed using principal coordinates analysis and STRUCTURE software. We compared the effects of two different methods of scoring polyploid genotypes on population genetic analyses. We analysed the effect of ploidy, local species abundance and latitude on levels of introgression between the species.

Key Results

Leaf morphology divided our samples into red and white birch, but genetic analyses unexpectedly revealed two groups within red birch, one of which was tetraploid, as expected, but the other of which appeared to have diploid microsatellite genotypes. Five individuals were identified as early-generation hybrids or backcrosses between white birch and red birch and five were identified between red birch and ‘diploid’ red birch. Cline analysis showed that levels of admixture were not significantly correlated with latitude. Estimated genetic differentiation among species was not significantly different between determined tetraploid and undetermined tetraploid genotypes.

Conclusions

Limited hybridization and gene flow have occurred between red birch and white birch. Relative species abundance and ploidy level do not impact the direction of introgression between them, as genetic admixture is roughly symmetrical. We unexpectedly found populations of apparently diploid red birch and this taxon may be a progenitor of allotetraploid red birch populations. Incomplete lineage sorting may explain patterns of genetic admixture between apparently diploid and allotetraploid red birch.
Employing plant functional groups to advance seed dispersal ecology and conservation
Authors: Aslan Clare , Beckman Noelle G , Rogers Haldre S , Bronstein Judie , Zurell Damaris , Hartig Florian , Shea Katriona , Pejchar Liba , Neubert Mike , Poulsen John , HilleRisLambers Janneke , Miriti Maria , Loiselle Bette , Effiom Edu , Zambrano Jenny , Schupp Geno , Pufal Gesine , Johnson Jeremy , Bullock James M , Brodie Jedediah , Bruna Emilio , Cantrell Robert Stephen , Decker Robin , Fricke Evan , Gurski Katie , Hastings Alan , Kogan Oleg , Razafindratsima Onja , Sandor Manette , Schreiber Sebastian , Snell Rebecca , Strickland Christopher , Zhou Ying
Published: February 2019

Seed dispersal enables plants to reach hospitable germination sites and escape natural enemies. Understanding when and how much seed dispersal matters to plant fitness is critical for understanding plant population and community dynamics. At the same time, the complexity of factors that determine if a seed will be successfully dispersed and subsequently develop into a reproductive plant is daunting. Quantifying all factors that may influence seed dispersal effectiveness for any potential seed-vector relationship would require an unrealistically large amount of time, materials and financial resources. On the other hand, being able to make dispersal predictions is critical for predicting whether single species and entire ecosystems will be resilient to global change. Building on current frameworks, we here posit that seed dispersal ecology should adopt plant functional groups as analytical units to reduce this complexity to manageable levels. Functional groups can be used to distinguish, for their constituent species, whether it matters (i) if seeds are dispersed, (ii) into what context they are dispersed and (iii) what vectors disperse them. To avoid overgeneralization, we propose that the utility of these functional groups may be assessed by generating predictions based on the groups and then testing those predictions against species-specific data. We suggest that data collection and analysis can then be guided by robust functional group definitions. Generalizing across similar species in this way could help us to better understand the population and community dynamics of plants and tackle the complexity of seed dispersal as well as its disruption.
Methicillin-susceptible and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia: Nationwide Estimates of 30-Day Readmission, In-hospital Mortality, Length of Stay, and Cost in the United States
Authors: Inagaki Kengo , Lucar Jose , Blackshear Chad , Hobbs Charlotte V
Published: February 2019

Background

Information on outcomes of methicillin-susceptible and -resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA and MRSA, respectively) bacteremia, particularly readmission, is scarce and requires further research to inform optimal patient care.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis using the 2014 Nationwide Readmissions Database, capturing 49.3% of US hospitalizations. We identified MSSA and MRSA bacteremia using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification among patients aged ≥18 years. Thirty-day readmission, mortality, length of stay, and costs were assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression, logistic regression, Poisson regression, and generalized linear model with gamma distribution and log link, respectively.

Results

Of 92 089 (standard error [SE], 1905) patients with S. aureus bacteremia, 48.5% (SE, 0.4%) had MRSA bacteremia. Thirty-day readmission rate was 22% (SE, 0.3) overall with no difference between MRSA and MSSA, but MRSA bacteremia had more readmission for bacteremia recurrence (hazard ratio, 1.17 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 1.02–1.34]), higher in-hospital mortality (odds ratio, 1.15 [95% CI, 1.07–1.23]), and longer hospitalization (incidence rate ratio, 1.09 [95% CI, 1.06–1.11]). Readmission with bacteremia recurrence was particularly more common among patients with endocarditis, immunocompromising comorbidities, and drug abuse. The cost of readmission was $12 425 (SE, $174) per case overall, and $19 186 (SE, $623) in those with bacteremia recurrence.

Conclusions

Thirty-day readmission after S. aureus bacteremia is common and costly. MRSA bacteremia is associated with readmission for bacteremia recurrence, increased mortality, and longer hospitalization. Efforts should continue to optimize patient care, particularly for those with risk factors, to decrease readmission and associated morbidity and mortality in patients with S. aureus bacteremia.
Career incentives in political hierarchy: evidence from Imperial Russia†
Authors: Gokmen Gunes , Kofanov Dmitrii
Published: February 2019

This paper studies political career incentives in a nondemocratic historical setting to assess early political institutions. We construct a novel panel database of governors of Imperial Russia in 91 provinces between 1895 and 1914. Measuring an imperial governor’s performance by his ability of peacekeeping, we test whether the central authorities in the Russian Empire resorted to career incentives to improve the performance of provincial governors. We find that the central administration promoted better performing governors only in the peripheral provinces (oblasts), but not in the main ones (gubernias). In addition, we show that political connections had no significant effect on career prospects.
Falls After Hospital Discharge: A Randomized Clinical Trial of Individualized Multimodal Falls Prevention Education
Authors: Hill Anne-Marie , McPhail Steven M , Haines Terry P , Morris Meg E , Etherton-Beer Christopher , Shorr Ronald , Flicker Leon , Bulsara Max , Waldron Nicholas , Lee Den-Ching A , Francis-Coad Jacqueline , Boudville Amanda
Published: February 2019

Background

Older people are at high risk of falls after hospital discharge. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of providing individualized falls prevention education in addition to usual care on falls rates in older people after hospital discharge compared to providing a social intervention in addition to usual care.

Methods

A randomized clinical trial at three hospitals in Western Australia: participants followed for 6 months after discharge. Baseline and outcomes measured by assessors masked to group allocation. Participants: aged 60 years and over, admitted for rehabilitation. Eligibility included: cognitively able to undertake education (Abbreviated mental test score >7/10). Intervention: tailored education comprising patient video and workbook, structured discussion and goal setting led by trained therapist. Main outcomes: falls in the 6 months after discharge; proportion of participants sustaining one or more falls.

Results

There were 382 (194 intervention; 188 control) participants (mean age 77.7 [SD 8.7] years). There were 378 falls (fall rate per 1,000 patient-days, 5.9 intervention; 5.9 control) reported by 164 (42.9%) participants in the 6 months following hospital discharge; 188 (49.7%) of these falls were injurious. There were no significant differences in falls rates between intervention and control groups: (adjusted IRR, 1.09; 95% CI [0.78 to 1.52]) or the proportion of participants who fell once or more (adjusted OR, 1.37; 95% CI [0.90 to 2.07]).

Conclusions

Providing individualized falls prevention education prior to discharge did not reduce falls at home after discharge. Further research is warranted to investigate how to reduce falls during this high-risk transition period.
Interrelated Neuromuscular and Clinical Risk Factors That Contribute to Falls
Authors: Ward Rachel E , Quach Lien , Welch Sarah A , Leveille Suzanne G , Leritz Elizabeth , Bean Jonathan F
Published: February 2019

Background

Neuromuscular and clinical factors contribute to falls among older adults, yet the interrelated nature of these factors is not well understood. We investigated the relationships between these factors and how they contribute to falls, which may help optimize fall risk assessment and prevention.

Methods

A total of 365 primary care patients (age = 77 ± 7, 67% female) were included from the Boston Rehabilitative Impairment Study of the Elderly. Neuromuscular measures included leg strength and leg velocity, trunk extensor endurance, and knee range of motion. Clinical measures included memory, executive function, depressive symptoms, pain, sensory loss, vision, comorbidity, physical activity, mobility self-efficacy, and psychiatric medication. Factor analysis was used to evaluate clustering of factors. Negative binomial regression assessed the relationship of factors with three-year fall rate. Interactions were tested to examine whether clinical factors modified the relationship between neuromuscular factors and falls.

Results

Three factors emerged: (i) neuromuscular factors, pain, and self-efficacy; (ii) memory; and (iii) executive function. Having three neuromuscular impairments predicted higher fall rate (incidence rate ratio [95% confidence interval]: 3.39 [1.82–6.32]) but was attenuated by memory (1.69 [1.10–2.61]), mobility self-efficacy (0.99 [0.98–0.99]), psychiatric medication use (1.54 [1.10–2.14]), and pain (1.13 [1.04–1.23]). Pain modified the relationship between neuromuscular impairment burden (number of neuromuscular impairments) and falls. Having three neuromuscular impairments was associated with a higher fall rate in patients with high levels of pain (5.73 [2.46–13.34]) but not among those with low pain.

Conclusions

Neuromuscular impairment burden was strongly associated with fall rate in older adults with pain. These factors should be considered together during fall risk assessment, post fall assessment, and prevention.
How Older Men With Multimorbidity Relate to Successful Aging
Authors: Jønsson Alexandra Ryborg , Reventlow Susanne , Guassora Ann Dorrit
Published: February 2019

Objectives

Research on successful aging gives limited attention to the role of suffering from multiple chronic conditions (multimorbidity) in combination with notions of masculinity. We address this by bringing into focus how older men with multimorbidity within the Nordic Model welfare system relate to successful aging. The objective is to bring new insights into key elements of how masculinity, multimorbidity and cultural context create alternative individual versions of successful aging.

Method

The article draws on a long-term fieldwork (18 months) among older men (n=7), who were part of a larger study that also included older women. The fieldwork consisted of 28 interviews with participating men. These data were supplemented by 124 hr of informal chats and observations as well as 32 hr of clinical encounters with health services. Data analysis followed a thematic approach.

Results

Analysis revealed that older men with multimorbidity understood core components of successful aging, yet did not closely follow them, and instead came up with alternative, gendered interpretations. This process involved three themes centered around independency of: (a) unaided successful aging, (b) vicarious successful aging, and (c) masculine successful aging.

Discussion

Our study contributes to research on perceptions of successful aging with insights to the role of cultural context, gender and multimorbidity. Living with multimorbidity challenges the ability of the men to positively frame themselves as successfully aging older adults; however, they navigate this dilemma by constructing their own experiences in their own terms of independence.
Coring induced sediment fabrics at IODP Expedition 347 Sites M0061 and M0062 identified by anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS): criteria for accepting palaeomagnetic data
Authors: Snowball Ian , Almqvist Bjarne , Lougheed Bryan C , Wiers Steffen , Obrochta Stephen , Herrero-Bervera Emilio
Published: February 2019

Anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility data obtained from discrete subsamples recovered from two Integrated Ocean Drilling Program sites (Expedition 347 sites M0061 and M0062 in the Baltic Sea) by an Advanced Piston Corer are compared to results obtained on subsamples recovered by replicate 6-m-long Kullenberg piston cores. Characteristic natural remanence directions were obtained from the total of 1097 subsamples using principal component analyses. The three principal anisotropy axes of subsamples taken from Advanced Piston Core liners align to the subsample axes, with the maximum axis (K1) parallel to the split core surfaces, possibly caused by outwards relaxation of the core-liners after splitting. A second anomalous anisotropy fabric is characterized by steep values of the angular difference between the inclination of the minimum anisotropy axes (K3) and that expected for horizontal bedding (90°). This fabric is confined to the upper 1–2 m of the Kullenberg cores and specific sections of the advanced piston cores, and we attribute it to conical deformation caused by either excessive penetration speeds and downwards dragging of sediment along the edge of the liner or stretching caused by undersampling. By using our data in an example, we present a protocol to accept palaeomagnetic secular variation data that uses (i) a threshold 90-K3 value of 15°, combined with a modelled, locally applicable minimum inclination of 65° and (ii) an A95 cone of confidence based on Fisher statistics applied to virtual geomagnetic pole distributions.