bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engineering ‘designer’ glycomodules for boosting recombinant protein secretion in tobacco hairy root culture and studying hydroxyproline‐O‐glycosylation process in plants
Authors: Zhang Ningning , Wright Tristen , Wang Xiaoting , Karki Uddhab , Savary Brett J. , Xu Jianfeng
Published: November 2018

The key technical bottleneck for exploiting plant hairy root cultures as a robust bioproduction platform for therapeutic proteins has been low protein productivity, particularly low secreted protein yields. To address this, we engineered novel hydroxyproline (Hyp)‐O‐glycosylated peptides (HypGPs) into tobacco hairy roots to boost the extracellular secretion of fused proteins and to elucidate Hyp‐O‐glycosylation process of plant cell wall Hyp‐rich glycoproteins. HypGPs representing two major types of cell wall glycoproteins were examined: an extensin module consisting of 18 tandem repeats of ‘Ser‐Hyp‐Hyp‐Hyp‐Hyp’ motif or (SP4)18 and an arabinogalactan protein module consisting of 32 tandem repeats of ‘Ser‐Hyp’ motif or (SP)32. Each module was expressed in tobacco hairy roots as a fusion to the enhanced green fluorescence protein (EGFP). Hairy root cultures engineered with a HypGP module secreted up to 56‐fold greater levels of EGFP, compared with an EGFP control lacking any HypGP module, supporting the function of HypGP modules as a molecular carrier in promoting efficient transport of fused proteins into the culture media. The engineered (SP4)18 and (SP)32 modules underwent Hyp‐O‐glycosylation with arabino‐oligosaccharides and arabinogalactan polysaccharides, respectively, which were essential in facilitating secretion of the fused EGFP protein. Distinct non‐Hyp‐O‐glycosylated (SP4)18‐EGFP and (SP)32‐EGFP intermediates were consistently accumulated within the root tissues, indicating a rate‐limiting trafficking and/or glycosylation of the engineered HypGP modules. An updated model depicting the intracellular trafficking, Hyp‐O‐glycosylation and extracellular secretion of extensin‐styled (SP4)18 module and AGP‐styled (SP)32 module is proposed.
Synthesis of TiO2 (B) and High‐temperature Stable Anatase TiO2 Nanowires by Hydrothermal Method and Investigation of Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Sabbagh Shervin , Behnajady Mohammad A.
Published: November 2018

In this study, TiO2 nanowires (TNWs) were synthesized through hydrothermal method and were characterized using X‐Ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and BET techniques. Monoclinic TiO2 (B) is the dominant phase of TNWs up to 600°C which is completely transformed into a highly crystalline anatase phase at 800°C. The photocatalytic activity of TNWs, prepared at various calcination temperatures, was investigated in the removal of Rhodamine B as an organic model pollutant. The results indicated that the photocatalytic activity of TNWs, prepared at 800°C calcination temperature, was better than that of other samples and even TiO2–P25 nanoparticles.
Contrasting thermal acclimation of leaf dark respiration and photosynthesis of Antarctic vascular plant species exposed to nocturnal warming
Authors: Sanhueza Carolina , Fuentes Francisca , Cortés Daniela , Bascunan‐Godoy Luisa , Sáez Patricia L. , Bravo León A. , Cavieres Lohengrin A.
Published: November 2018

Leaf respiration and photosynthesis will respond differently to an increase in temperature during night, which can be more relevant in sensitive ecosystems such as Antarctica. We postulate that the plant species able to colonize the Antarctic Peninsula – Colobanthus quitensis (Kunth) Bartl. and Deschampsia antarctica Desv. – are able to acclimate their foliar respiration and to maintain photosynthesis under nocturnal warming to sustain a positive foliar carbon balance. We conducted a laboratory experiment to evaluate the effect of time of day (day and night) and nocturnal warming on dark respiration. Short (E0 and Q10) and long‐term acclimation of respiration, leaf carbohydrates, photosynthesis (Asat) and foliar carbon balance (R/A) were evaluated. The results suggest that the two species have differential thermal acclimation respiration, where D. antarctica showed more thermosensitivity to short‐term changes in temperature than C. quitensis. Experimental nocturnal warming affected respiration at daytime differentially between the two species, with a significant increase of R10 and Asat in D. antarctica, while no changes on respiration were observed in C. quitensis. Long thermal treatments of the plants indicated that nocturnal but not diurnal respiration could acclimate in both species, and to a greater extent in C. quitensis. Non‐structural carbohydrates were related with respiration in C. quitensis but not in D. antarctica, suggesting that respiration in the former species is likely controlled by total soluble sugars and starch during day and night, respectively. Finally, foliar carbon balance was differentially improved under warming conditions in Antarctic plants by different mechanisms, with C. quitensis deploying respiratory acclimation, while D. antarctica increased its Asat.
Molecular identification and functional characterization of GhAMT1.3 in ammonium transport with a high affinity from cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: Sun Yi‐Chen , Sheng Song , Fan Teng‐Fei , Liu Lu , Ke Jie , Wang Dai‐Bin , Hua Jin‐Ping , Liu Lai‐Hua , Cao Feng‐Qiu
Published: November 2018

Ammonium (NH4+) represents a primary nitrogen source for many plants, its effective transport into and between tissues and further assimilation in cells determine greatly plant nitrogen use efficiency. However, biological components involved in NH4+ movement in woody plants are unclear. Here, we report kinetic evidence for cotton NH4+ uptake and molecular identification of certain NH4+ transporters (AMTs) from cotton (Gossypium hirustum). A substrate‐influx assay using 15N‐isotope revealed that cotton possessed a high‐affinity transport system with a Km of 58 μM for NH4+. Sequence analysis showed that GhAMT1.1–1.3 encoded respectively a membrane protein containing 485, 509 or 499 amino acids. Heterologous functionality test demonstrated that GhAMT1.1–1.3 expression mediated NH4+ permeation across the plasma membrane (PM) of yeast and/or Arabidopsis qko‐mutant cells, allowing a growth restoration of both mutants on NH4+. Quantitative PCR measurement showed that GhAMT1.3 was expressed in roots and leaves and markedly up‐regulated by N‐starvation, repressed by NH4+ resupply and regulated diurnally and age‐dependently, suggesting that GhAMT1.3 should be a N‐responsive gene. Importantly, GhAMT1.3 expression in Arabidopsis improved plant growth on NH4+ and enhanced total nitrogen accumulation (∼50% more), conforming with the observation of 2‐fold more NH4+ absorption by GhAMT1.3‐transformed qko plant roots during a 1‐h root influx period. Together with its targeting to the PM and saturated transport kinetics with a Km of 72 μM for NH4+, GhAMT1.3 is suggested to be a high‐affinity NH4+ permease that may play a significant role in cotton NH4+ acquisition and utilization, adding a new member in the plant AMT family.
Struggling with Standard Order: Challenges and Performance of the Trump National Security Council System
Authors: Burke John P.
Published: November 2018

This article examines issues that have emerged in the Trump national security system and its process of information analysis and deliberation during its first year and one half in office. It was troubled from the start, and it especially experienced a problematic transition period. It then faced the resignation of its initial National Security Council (NSC) advisor, Lieutenant General Michael Flynn, less than a month after Trump was inaugurated. This article explores how Flynn’s eventual replacement, Lieutenant General H. R. McMaster, confronted a challenging task in restoring order and in appointing new personnel. He also increasingly faced White House criticism of his performance as NSC advisor as well as numerous reports that his days in the post were numbered (which indeed proved to be the case). On March 22, 2018, President Trump announced that John Bolton would replace McMaster. Bolton quickly moved in changing key personnel and in putting his own imprint on the post. Throughout, the national security process was overshadowed by a president who lacked foreign policy experience and whose decision‐making patterns and practices were often problematic.
Shaking Hands with Hitler: The Politics‐Administration Dichotomy and Engagement with Fascism
Authors: Roberts Alasdair
Published: November 2018

Researchers have examined the impact of the politics‐administration dichotomy on the practice and theory of public administration within the United States. But the dichotomy also influenced patterns of international engagement by American experts in the 1920s and 1930s. Americans believed that they could set politics aside and collaborate on administrative questions with regimes that did not respect democracy and human rights. This belief was tested after the rise of Adolf Hitler. American experts in public administration engaged with the Nazi regime for three years, ignoring the rising controversy over Nazi policies. The breaking point came in 1936. American experts finally recognized that it was impossible to ignore political questions and became forthright proponents of “democratic administration.” This struggle to define the boundaries of international engagement is relevant today, as specialists in public administration again find themselves in a world in which a shared commitment to democracy and human rights cannot be taken for granted.
Radiofrequency spectral analysis of EBUS for peripheral pulmonary lesions
Authors: Morikawa Kei , Kurimoto Noriaki , Inoue Takeo , Miyazawa Teruomi , Mineshita Masamichi
Published: November 2018

Background and objective

We previously reported that histogram‐based quantitative evaluation for endobronchial ultrasonography (EBUS) B‐mode images could differentiate between benign and malignant lesions. However, these images were generated from reconstructed raw radiofrequency (RF) signals and had some limitations. Currently, there are no reports on raw RF signal data to quantitatively differentiate ultrasound information for peripheral pulmonary lesions.

Methods

We prospectively hypothesized that RF spectral analysis from EBUS images could reveal sonographic features of peripheral pulmonary diseases. RF data were imported into a frequency spectral analysis software programme, comparing four parameters: mean frequency (MHz); slope; mid‐band fit (dB); and y‐intercept (dB), to differentiate between benign and malignant lesions. Furthermore, we compared subgroup analysis within benign and malignant lesions.

Results

RF data from EBUS images were obtained in 146 cases, of which, 106 lung cancers and 40 inflammatory diseases were present. Significant differences were observed for three parameters in benign and malignant lesions (mean frequency: P < 0.05, slope: P < 0.05, y‐intercept: P < 0.01) with diagnostic accuracy of 61%, 57.5%, 63%, respectively. In subgroup analysis, the acute pneumonia group showed higher mean frequency, higher slope and lower y‐intercept patterns compared to mycobacterial and fibrotic diseases (P < 0.05). In malignant lesions, small cell carcinoma showed higher mean frequency, higher slope and lower y‐intercept pattern compared to other histopathological lung cancers (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

RF analysis might be capable of demonstrating aspects of the lesion's pathological heterogeneity rather than precisely differentiating between benign and malignant lesions.
Acute respiratory distress syndrome and the promise of driving pressure
Authors: Sell Rebecca E. , Malhotra Atul
Published: November 2018

See related Article
GIS‐Based Integration of Social Vulnerability and Level 3 Probabilistic Risk Assessment to Advance Emergency Preparedness, Planning, and Response for Severe Nuclear Power Plant Accidents
Authors: Pence Justin , Miller Ian , Sakurahara Tatsuya , Whitacre James , Reihani Seyed , Kee Ernie , Mohaghegh Zahra
Published: November 2018

In the nuclear power industry, Level 3 probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) is used to estimate damage to public health and the environment if a severe accident leads to large radiological release. Current Level 3 PRA does not have an explicit inclusion of social factors and, therefore, it is not possible to perform importance ranking of social factors for risk‐informing emergency preparedness, planning, and response (EPPR). This article offers a methodology for adapting the concept of social vulnerability, commonly used in natural hazard research, in the context of a severe nuclear power plant accident. The methodology has four steps: (1) calculating a hazard‐independent social vulnerability index for the local population; (2) developing a location‐specific representation of the maximum radiological hazard estimated from current Level 3 PRA, in a geographic information system (GIS) environment; (3) developing a GIS‐based socio‐technical risk map by combining the social vulnerability index and the location‐specific radiological hazard; and (4) conducting a risk importance measure analysis to rank the criticality of social factors based on their contribution to the socio‐technical risk. The methodology is applied using results from the 2012 Surry Power Station state‐of‐the‐art reactor consequence analysis. A radiological hazard model is generated from MELCOR accident consequence code system, translated into a GIS environment, and combined with the Center for Disease Control social vulnerability index (SVI). This research creates an opportunity to explicitly consider and rank the criticality of location‐specific SVI themes based on their influence on risk, providing input for EPPR.
Hierarchical marginal models with latent uncertainty
Authors: Colombi Roberto , Giordano Sabrina , Gottard Anna , Iannario Maria
Published: November 2018

In responding to a rating question, an individual may give answers either according to his/her knowledge/awareness or to his/her level of indecision/uncertainty, typically driven by a response style. As ignoring this dual behavior may lead to misleading results, we define a multivariate model for ordinal rating responses by introducing, for every item and every respondent, a binary latent variable that discriminates aware from uncertain responses. Some independence assumptions among latent and observable variables characterize the uncertain behavior and make the model easier to interpret. Uncertain responses are modeled by specifying probability distributions that can depict different response styles. A marginal parameterization allows a simple and direct interpretation of the parameters in terms of association among aware responses and their dependence on explanatory factors. The effectiveness of the proposed model is attested through an application to real data and supported by a Monte Carlo study.
Texting for Help: Processes and Impact of Text Counseling with Children and Youth with Suicide Ideation
Authors: Sindahl Trine N. , Côte Louis‐Phillippe , Dargis Luc , Mishara Brian L. , Bechmann Jensen Torben
Published: November 2018

Objective

To explore: (1) how children contacting a child helpline with suicide ideation differ from children discussing other topics, (2) whether text messaging effectively helps, and (3) which counselor behaviors are most effective.

Method

Of 6,060 text sessions at the Danish national child helpline, 444 concerned suicidality, of which the 102 sessions that included self‐rated, end Session ratings were selected for content analysis.

Results

Twenty‐six percentage of suicidal children had severe suicidality. The suicide sample had significantly more girls, was older than the nonsuicide sample, and more often recontacted the helpline in the 2 weeks prior to follow‐up. 35.9% of suicidal children felt better immediately and over half ended the session with a plan of action. At follow‐up, 23.9% of suicidal children reported feeling better; however, 37.0% reported feeling worse. Talking about emotions, expressing empathy, and encouraging the child to talk to someone were associated with positive impacts. Setting boundaries was associated with negative impacts.

Conclusions

Texting with suicidal children can be helpful, but should be considered a first step toward obtaining more sustainable help. Research is needed to determine how to better help children who felt worse or did not improve in the 2 weeks after contacting the helpline. Suggestions to further training of counselors are discussed.
A method to standardize the blood flow restriction pressure by an elastic cuff
Authors: Abe Takashi , Mouser J. Grant , Dankel Scott J. , Bell Zachary W. , Buckner Samuel L. , Mattocks Kevin T. , Jessee Matthew B. , Loenneke Jeremy P.
Published: November 2018

Blood flow restriction training using a practical (non‐pneumatic) elastic cuff has recently increased in popularity. However, a criticism of this method is that the pressure applied and the amount of blood flow restriction induced is unknown. The aim was to quantify blood flow following the application of an elastic cuff and compare that to what is observed using a more traditional pressurized nylon cuff. Thirty‐five young participants (16 men and 19 women) visited the laboratory once for testing. In a randomized order (one condition per arm), an elastic cuff (5 cm wide) was applied to one arm and blood flow was measured following the cuff being pulled to two distinct lengths; 10% and 20% of the resting length based on arm circumference. The other arm would follow a similar protocol but use a pressurized nylon cuff (5 cm wide) and be inflated to 40% and 80% of the individuals resting arterial occlusion pressure. There was a main effect of pressure for blood flow with it decreasing in a pressure‐dependent manner (High < Low, P < 0.001). The mean difference (95% CI) in blood flow between cuffs was −5.9 (−18.9, 7.0) % for the lower pressure and −4.0 (−13.2, 5.1) % for the higher pressure. When the relative changes for each cuff were separated by sex, there were no differences in the changes from Pre (P ≥ 0.509). The application of a pressure relative to the initial belt length, which is largely dependent upon arm circumference, appears to provide one method to standardize the practical blood flow restriction pressure for future research.
Identification of the novel HLA‐A*29:02:01:06 allele in a Saudi individual
Authors: Alblaihed Asma , Alburaq Mohammed , Alanazi Aisha , AlSebaiheen Farrah , Alshubaili Abdullah
Published: November 2018

HLA‐A*29:02:01:06 differs from HLA‐A*29:02:01:01 by a single nucleotide substitution (T➔C) at position 2471.
Identification of the novel HLA‐DQB1*05:01:01:05 allele in a Saudi individual
Authors: AlSebaiheen Farrah , Alblaihed Asma , Alburaq Mohammed , Alanazi Aisha , Alshubaili Abdullah
Published: November 2018

HLA‐DQB1*05:01:01:05 differs from HLA‐DQB1*05:01:01:01 by a single nucleotide substitution (G➔A) at position 1062.
Cost‐effective and fast KIR gene‐content genotyping by multiplex melting curve analysis
Authors: Amorim Leonardo M. , Santos Tiago H. S. , Hollenbach Jill A. , Norman Paul J. , Marin Wesley M. , Dandekar Ravi , Ribeiro Enilze M. S. F. , Petzl‐Erler Maria L. , Augusto Danillo G.
Published: November 2018

Killer cell immunoglobulin‐like receptor (KIR) genes encode cell surface molecules that recognize HLA molecules and modulate the activity of natural killer (NK) cells. KIR genes exhibit presence and absence polymorphism, which generates a variety of gene‐content haplotypes in worldwide populations. KIR gene‐content variation is implicated in many diseases and is also important for placentation and transplantation. Because of the complexity of KIR polymorphism, variation in this family is still mostly studied at the gene‐content level, even with the advent of next‐generation sequencing (NGS) methods. Gene‐content determination is generally expensive and/or time‐consuming. To overcome these difficulties, we developed a method based on multiplex polymerase chain reaction with specific sequence primers (PCR‐SSP) followed by melting curve analysis that allows cost‐effective, precise and fast generation of results. Our method was 100% concordant with a gel‐based method and 99.9% concordant with presence and absence determination by NGS. The limit of detection for accurate typing was 30 ng of DNA (0.42 μM) with 260/230 and 260/280 ratios as low as 0.19 and of 0.44. In addition, we developed a user‐friendly Java‐based computational application called killerPeak that interprets the raw data generated by Viia7 or QuantStudio 7 quantitative PCR machines and reliably exports the final genotyping results in spreadsheet file format. The combination of a reliable method that requires low amount of DNA with an automated interpretation of results allows scaling the KIR genotyping in large cohorts with reduced turnaround time.
On the computation of torus link homology
Authors: Elias Ben , Hogancamp Matthew
Published: November 2018

We introduce a new method for computing triply graded link homology, which is particularly well adapted to torus links. Our main application is to the$(n,n)$-torus links, for which we give an exact answer for all$n$. In several cases, our computations verify conjectures of Gorskyet al.relating homology of torus links with Hilbert schemes.
The magnitude of neuromuscular fatigue is not intensity dependent when cycling above critical power but relates to aerobic and anaerobic capacities
Authors: Schäfer Lisa U. , Hayes Mark , Dekerle Jeanne
Published: November 2018

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Is the magnitude of neuromuscular fatigue dependent upon exercise intensity above critical power (CP) when W′ (the curvature constant of the power–duration relationship) is depleted?

What is the main finding and its importance?

The magnitude of neuromuscular fatigue is the same after two bouts of supra‐CP cycling (3 versus 12 min) when controlling for W′ depletion but is larger for individuals of greater anaerobic capacity after the shorter bout and smaller for individuals of greater aerobic capacity after the longer exercise bout. These findings provide new insight into the mechanisms underpinning exercise above CP.

The aim of the present study was to test whether the development of neuromuscular fatigue within the severe‐intensity domain could be linked to the depletion of the curvature constant (W′) of the power–duration relationship. Twelve recreationally active men completed tests to determine peak oxygen consumption, critical power (CP) and W′, followed by two randomly assigned constant‐load supra‐CP trials set to deplete W′ fully in 3 (P‐3) and 12 min (P‐12). Pre‐ to postexercise changes in maximal voluntary contraction, potentiated quadriceps twitch force evoked by single (Qpot) and paired high‐ (PS100) and low‐frequency (PS10) stimulations and voluntary activation were determined. Cycling above CP reduced maximal voluntary contraction (P‐3, −20 ± 10% versus P‐12, −15 ± 7%), measures associated with peripheral fatigue (Qpot, −35 ± 13 versus −31 ± 14%; PS10, −38 ± 13 versus −37 ± 17%; PS100, −18 ± 9 versus −13 ± 8% for P‐3 and P‐12, respectively) and voluntary activation (P‐3, −12 ± 3% versus P‐12, −13 ± 3%; P < 0.05), with no significant difference between trials (P > 0.05). Changes in maximal voluntary contraction and evoked twitch forces were inversely correlated with CP and peak oxygen consumption after P‐12, whereas W′ was significantly correlated with changes in Qpot and PS10 after P‐3 (P < 0.05). Therefore, the magnitude of neuromuscular fatigue does not depend on exercise intensity when W′ is fully exhausted during severe‐intensity exercise; nonetheless, exploration of inter‐individual variations suggests that mechanisms underpinning exercise tolerance within this domain differ between short‐ and long‐duration exercise.
Functional response and prey stage preference of Neoseiulus barkeri on Trasonemus confusus
Authors: Li Litao , Jiao Rui , Yu Lichen , He Xiong Zhao , He Limin , Xu Changxin , Zhang Linlin , Liu Jinli
Published: November 2018

The fungivorous Tarsonemus confusus Ewing is a tarsonemid mite causing a so call ‘black-dot’ symptom on the bagged apple fruit in North China, and the phytoseiid mite Neoseiulus barkeri Hughes is a cosmopolitan generalist predator of many agricultural and horticultural pests. In the present study, we evaluated the biological control potential of N. barkeri on T. confusus, by determining its functional response type to prey density of and prey stage preference on both active and quiescent life stages of T. confusus (i.e., eggs, larvae, quiescent larvae and female adults). We found that N. barkeri exhibited all three types of functional response. When fed on eggs and quiescent larvae of T. confusus, N. barkeri had a Type II functional response (i.e., inverse density-dependent predation rate); however, a Type I functional response (i.e., density-independent predation rate) was detected when N. barkeri preyed on T. confusus larvae and a Type III functional response (i.e., sigmoid density-dependent predation rate) when preyed on T. confusus adults. We further showed that the ‘constant prey’ functional response models fit our data better than the ‘depleted prey’ models, as the predator left and reencountered the previously fed prey which reduced its searching efficiency. When all active and quiescent life stages of T. confusus were available, N. barkeri significantly preferred larvae over other prey stages for feeding. Our results imply that due to its quick response to the increasing prey larval and adult densities, N. barkeri could consume a great number of active prey and is thus capable to decline the current fruit damage caused by prey feeding and to potentially prevent the prey population build-up later in the season. Furthermore, predators with Type II response may be efficient at low prey densities, thus augmentative release of N. barkeri early in the season may also suppress the egg and quiescent larva populations of T. confusus. Knowledge from this study provides insights into our understandings in the biological control ecology of N. barkeri.
NASA to pay private space companies for moon rides
Authors: Voosen Paul
Published: November 2018

Experiments on commercial landers could confirm a wetter, more active moon.
Cracking the Cambrian
Authors: Sokol Joshua
Published: November 2018

New fossils and sites are helping make sense of the mysterious flowering of animal life half a billion years ago.
Intensification for redesigned and sustainable agricultural systems
Authors: Pretty Jules
Published: November 2018

The future of farming

In the mid-20th century, food production from agriculture sharply increased worldwide; however, this was achieved through heavy use of agrochemicals. Extensive collateral damage from excessive use of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers has occurred to the wider environment. This has led to biodiversity loss, pesticide resistance and the emergence of new pests, pollution and decline of freshwater supplies, and soil degradation and erosion, as well as direct harm to health. In a Review, Pretty examines the alternative approaches that can achieve sustainable intensification of farming systems by integrating pest management with agroecological systems to minimize costs, maximize yields, restore ecosystem services, and ensure environmental enhancement.

Science
, this issue p.
eaav0294
Cellular networks in wound healing
Authors: Willenborg Sebastian , Eming Sabine A.
Published: November 2018

Macrophage and fibroblast heterogeneity and plasticity control tissue fibrosis
Paring down to the essentials
Authors: Wang Tim
Published: November 2018

A genome-wide library of single gene knockouts enables high-throughput functional analysis of mammalian genes
A key component of gene expression, revealed
Authors: Wan Ruixue
Published: November 2018

High-resolution microscopy sheds light on the molecular mechanisms of the spliceosome
The decline of Africa's largest mammals
Authors: Bobe René , Carvalho Susana
Published: November 2018

Did hominins play a role in the loss of megaherbivores?
Thomas A. Steitz (1940–2018)
Authors: Ramakrishnan Venki , Henderson Richard
Published: November 2018

Biochemistry giant who illuminated ribosome structure
Sex differences in quality indicator attainment for myocardial infarction: a nationwide cohort study
Authors: Wilkinson Chris , Bebb Owen , Dondo Tatendashe B , Munyombwe Theresa , Casadei Barbara , Clarke Sarah , Schiele François , Timmis Adam , Hall Marlous , Gale Chris P
Published: November 2018

Aim

To investigate sex differences in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) guideline-indicated care as defined by the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Acute Cardiovascular Care Association (ACCA) quality indicators.

Methods

Nationwide cohort study comprising 691 290 AMI hospitalisations in England and Wales (n=233 hospitals) from the Myocardial Ischaemia National Audit Project between 1 January 2003 and 30 June 2013.

Results

There were 34.5% (n=238 489) women (median age 76.7 (IQR 66.3–84.0) years; 33.9% (n=80 884) ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI)) and 65.5% (n=452 801) men (median age 67.1 (IQR 56.9–77.2) years; 42.5% (n=192 229) STEMI). Women less frequently received 13 of the 16 quality indicators compared with men, including timely reperfusion therapy for STEMI (76.8% vs 78.9%; p<0.001), timely coronary angiography for non-STEMI (24.2% vs 36.7%; p<0.001), dual antiplatelet therapy (75.4% vs 78.7%) and secondary prevention therapies (87.2% vs 89.6% for statins, 82.5% vs 85.6% for ACE inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blockers and 62.6% vs 67.6% for beta-blockers; all p<0.001). Median 30-day Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events risk score adjusted mortality was higher for women than men (median: 5.2% (IQR 1.8%–13.1%) vs 2.3% (IQR 0.8%–7.1%), p<0.001). An estimated 8243 (95% CI 8111 to 8375) deaths among women could have been prevented over the study period if their quality indicator attainment had been equal to that attained by men.

Conclusion

According to the ESC ACCA AMI quality indicators, women in England and Wales less frequently received guideline-indicated care and had significantly higher mortality than men. Greater attention to the delivery of recommended AMI treatments for women has the potential to reduce the sex-AMI mortality gap.
The importance of timber prices and other factors for harvest increase among non-industrial private forest owners
Authors: Sjølie Hanne K. , Wangen Knut Reidar , Lindstad Berit H. , Solberg Birger
Published: November 2018

Increased harvest is high on the forestry and climate policy agenda in several countries. By carrying out a national-wide survey of forest owners, we explored to what extent private non-industrial forest owners in Norway are willing to increase harvest due to elevated hypothetical prices. The results indicate that owners who have not harvested timber for sale in the last 15 years do not respond to large price shifts. Instead, ownership objectives and knowledge of a key policy instrument predict willingness to enter the timber market among these owners. The willingness among owners who have sold timber the last 15 years depends on these factors, in addition to price, forest area, income, and gender. Female owners were significantly less willing than male owners to increase harvest. Once the decision to harvest was taken, the stated timber supply volume per area unit decreases with productive forest area among both active and inactive owners. With regard to sources of information, owners who have not harvested timber the last 15 years use the information sources to a lesser extent than other owners do. Forest policies and extension services should acknowledge that for stimulating forest owners outside the timber market to supply wood, factors other than price are important and that alternative information pathways should be explored for reaching these owners.
The entropy of an acoustic black hole in neo-Newtonian theory
Authors: Anacleto M. A. , Salako Ines G. , Brito F. A. , Passos E.
Published: November 2018

In this paper, we consider the metric of a (2[Formula: see text]+[Formula: see text]1)-dimensional rotating acoustic black hole in the neo-Newtonian theory to compute the Hawking temperature, and applying the quantum statistical method, we calculate the statistical entropy using a corrected state density due to the generalized uncertainty principle (GUP). In our calculations, we have shown that the obtained entropy is finite and correction terms are generated. Moreover, the computation of the entropy for this method does not present logarithmic corrections.
Gravi-weak unification and the black-hole-hedgehog’s solution with magnetic field contribution
Authors: Sidharth B. G. , Das C. R. , Laperashvili L. V. , Nielsen H. B.
Published: November 2018

In the present paper, we investigated the gravitational black-hole-hedgehog’s solution with magnetic field contribution in the framework of the [Formula: see text]-gravity described by the Gravi-weak unification (GWU) model. Assuming the Multiple Point Principle (MPP), we considered the existence of the two degenerate vacua of the Universe: the first Electroweak (EW)-vacuum with [Formula: see text] GeV (“true vacuum”), and the second Planck scale (“false vacuum”) with [Formula: see text] GeV. In these vacua, we investigated different topological defects. The main aim of this paper is an investigation of the black-hole-hedgehog configurations as defects of the “false vacuum.” We have obtained the solution which corresponds to a global monopole, that has been “swallowed” by the black-hole with core mass [Formula: see text] GeV and radius [Formula: see text] GeV[Formula: see text]. We investigated the metric in the vicinity of the black-hole-hedgehog and estimated its horizon radius: [Formula: see text]. We have considered the phase transition from the “false vacuum” to the “true vacuum” and confirmed the stability of the EW-vacuum.
ASIC and FPGA Comparative Study for IoT Lightweight Hardware Security Algorithms
Authors: Samir Nagham , Hussein Abdelrahman Sobeih , Khaled Mohaned , El-Zeiny Ahmed N. , Osama Mahetab , Yassin Heba , Abdelbaky Ali , Mahmoud Omar , Shawky Ahmed , Mostafa Hassan
Published: November 2018

Data security, privacy and authenticity are crucial in wireless data transmission. Low power consumption is the main requirement for any chip design targeting the Internet of Things (IoT) applications. In this research paper, a comparative study of eight authenticated encryption and decryption algorithms, selected from the “Competition for Authenticated Encryption: Security, Applicability and Robustness” (CAESAR), namely, ACORN, ASCON, CLOC, JOLTIK, MORUS, PRIMATEs, SCREAM and SILC, is presented. The FPGA and ASIC implementations of these eight algorithms are synthesized, placed and routed. Power, area, latency and throughput are measured for all algorithms. All results are analyzed to determine the most suitable algorithm for IoT applications. These results show that ACORN algorithm exhibits the lowest power consumption of the eight studied at the expense of lower throughput and higher latency. MORUS algorithm gives the highest throughput among the eight selected algorithms at the expense of large area utilization.
Generalized local homology and duality
Authors: Yen Do Ngoc , Nam Tran Tuan
Published: November 2018

We study the generalized local homology for linearly compact modules which is a generalization of the local homology theory. By duality, we get some properties of the generalized local cohomology and extend well-known properties of the local cohomology theory of Grothendieck.
MICRO-EMULSION METHOD FOR THE SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF La, Mn-DOPED Ba3Co2 Fe24O41 Z-TYPE HEXA-NANOFERRITES
Authors: FARID GHULAM , SAIF MUHAMMAD , MURTAZA GHULAM , HUSSAIN ATIF , UMAIR MUHAMMAD , MALIK MUHAMMAD ABDULLAH
Published: November 2018

In this report, micro-emulsion method was used to obtain La, Mn-doped Ba3Co2 [Formula: see text][Formula: see text] single-phase Z-type hexa-nanoferrites by maintaining annealing temperature at 1200∘C. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis shows lattice parameters, crystallite size, and volume are significantly enhanced by introducing La and Mn ions instead of Ba and Fe, respectively. Moreover, La and Mn ion doping improved the preferred orientation of atoms through the basal plane of Z-type hexaferrite. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) study reveals that the surface morphology of La- and Mn-doped Ba3Co2 [Formula: see text][Formula: see text], Z-type ferrites show ultrafine and small particle size. The analysis of X-Ray absorption near edge spectroscopy (XANES) suggests that transition in [Formula: see text] has occurred from 3d core level to empty electronic state above the Fermi level. Furthermore, it is observed that in the Z-type ferrites Co exist as divalent ion and Fe as trivalent ion by analyzing XANES. Vibrating samples magnetometer (VSM) indicated that the samples are ferromagnetic as they have narrow hysteresis loops. The decrease in coercivity is due to paramagnetic dopant element Manganese (Mn).
Implementation of Different Formulas for Special Green’s Functions in a 3D Half-Space BEM
Authors: Piscoya Rafael , Ochmann Martin
Published: November 2018

The numerical stability of different formulas for the correction term of the half-space Green’s function is investigated. The formula with complex monopoles is taken as a reference. The expressions of Koh and Yook, tested in a previous publication [R. Piscoya and M. Ochmann, Acoustical Green’s function and boundary element techniques for 3D half-space problems, J. Comput. Acoust. (2017), https://doi.org/10.1142/S0218396X17300018 ], are rewritten to improve their range of application. The formulas of Sommerfeld and Thomasson are analyzed and its suitability for a BEM implementation is evaluated by comparing their accuracy against our reference. For the sake of completeness, the first and second derivatives of the formulas are explicitly written.
Sulforaphane Delays Fibroblast Senescence by Curbing Cellular Glucose Uptake, Increased Glycolysis, and Oxidative Damage
Authors: Hariton Florence , Xue Mingzhan , Rabbani Naila , Fowler Mark , Thornalley Paul J.
Published: November 2018

Increased cell senescence contributes to the pathogenesis of aging and aging‐related disease. Senescence of human fibroblasts in vitro may be delayed by culture in low glucose concentration. There is also accumulating evidence of senescence delay by exposure to dietary bioactive compounds that activate transcription factor Nrf2. The mechanism of cell senescence delay and connection between these responses is unknown. We describe herein that the cruciferous vegetable‐derived metabolite, sulforaphane (SFN), activates Nrf2 and delays senescence of human MRC‐5 and BJ fibroblasts in vitro. Cell senescence is associated with a progressive and marked increased rate of glucose metabolism through glycolysis. This increases mitochondrial dysfunction and overwhelms defences against reactive metabolites, leading to increasing proteomic and genomic oxidative damage. Increased glucose entry into glycolysis in fibroblast senescence is mainly mediated by increased hexokinase‐2. SFN delayed senescence by decreasing glucose metabolism on the approach to senescence, exhibiting a caloric restriction mimetic‐like activity and thereby decreased oxidative damage to cell protein and DNA. This was associated with increased expression of thioredoxin‐interacting protein, curbing entry of glucose into cells; decreased hexokinase‐2, curbing entry of glucose into cellular metabolism; decreased 6‐phosphofructo‐2‐kinase, downregulating formation of allosteric enhancer of glycolysis fructose‐2,6‐bisphosphate; and increased glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase, downregulating carbohydrate response element‐ (ChRE‐) mediated transcriptional enhancement of glycolysis by Mondo/Mlx. SFN also enhanced clearance of proteins cross‐linked by transglutaminase which otherwise increased in senescence. This suggests that screening of compounds to counter senescence‐associated glycolytic overload may be an effective strategy to identify compounds with antisenescence activity and health beneficial effects of SFN in longevity may involve delay of senescence through glucose and glycolytic restriction response.
Role of β-Estradiol in MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cell Line Based on the Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Wang Rong  , Li Jinbin  , Yin Chunyu  , Zhao Di  , Zhao Yulan  , Li Yapeng  , Yin Ling 
Published: November 2018

Background: This study aimed to investigate the action mechanism of β-estradiol in MCF-7 breast cancer (BC) cells. Methods: The cell samples were sequenced using Hiseq 2000, including 2 MCF-7 controls and 2 samples treated with β-estradiol. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened using the NOISeq package in R, followed by the functions and pathways analyses using Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery. DEGs associated with β-estradiol were selected using the WbeGestalt software, and the corresponding target miRNAs of these genes were analyzed from different miRNA databases. Additionally, protein-protein interaction network of the drug-associated genes was constructed using Cytoscape. Results: A total of 1,835 DEGs in BC samples were screened. Thereinto, DEGs associated with BC (17 upregulated and 28 downregulated DEGs) were involved in the regulation of cell proliferation, response to endogenous stimulus, and response to hormone stimulus, while the genes participated in several significant pathways. Cyclin D1, estrogen receptor 1, catechol-O-methyltransferase, and cathepsin D (CTSD; hub genes) were the predicted new genes associated with β-estradiol. Besides, hsa-miR-140-3p was the only target miRNA of CTSD. Conclusion: β-Estradiol may play a key role in contributing to BC progression and metastasis by regulating the expression of the selected genes.
Itraconazole Attenuates Peritoneal Fibrosis Through Its Effect on the Sonic Hedgehog Signaling Pathway in Mice
Authors: Kim Jin Sug , Cho Kyung Sook , Park Seon Hwa , Lee Sang Ho , Lee Ji Hwan , Jeong Kyung Hwan , Lee Tae Won
Published: November 2018

Background: Peritoneal fibrosis is a devastating complication of peritoneal dialysis. However, its precise mechanism is unclear, and specific treatments have not yet been established. Recent evidence suggests that the sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway is involved in tissue fibrogenesis. Drugs that inhibit this pathway are emerging in the field of anti-fibrosis therapy. Itraconazole, an anti-fungal agent, was also recently recognized as an inhibitor of the SHH signaling pathway. In this study, we used a mouse model to investigate whether the SHH signaling pathway is involved in the development of peritoneal fibrosis and the effects of itraconazole on peritoneal fibrosis. Methods: Peritoneal fibrosis was induced by intraperitoneal (IP) injection of 0.1% chlorhexidine gluconate (CG) solution every other day for 4 weeks, with or without itraconazole treatment (20 mg/kg, IP injection on a daily basis). Male C57BL/6 mice were divided into 4 groups: saline group, saline plus itraconazole group, CG group, and CG plus itraconazole group. Isotonic saline was administered intraperitoneally to the control group. The peritoneal tissues were evaluated for histological changes, expression of fibrosis markers, and the main components of the SHH signaling pathway. Results: Peritoneal thickening was evident in the CG group and was significantly decreased by itraconazole administration (80.4 ± 7.7 vs. 28.2 ± 3.8 µm, p < 0.001). The expression of the following SHH signaling pathway components was upregulated in the CG group and suppressed by itraconazole treatment: SHH, patched, smoothened, and glioma-associated oncogene transcription factor 1. The IP injection of CG solution increased the expression of fibrosis markers such as α-smooth muscle actin and transforming growth factor-β1 in the peritoneal tissues. Itraconazole treatment significantly decreased the expression of these markers. Conclusion: Our study provides the first evidence that the SHH signaling pathway may be implicated in peritoneal fibrosis. It also demonstrates that itraconazole treatment has protective effects on peritoneal fibrosis through the regulation of the SHH signaling pathway. These findings suggest that blockage of the SHH signaling pathway is a potential therapeutic strategy for peritoneal fibrosis.
Antibodies against M-Type Phospholipase A2 Receptor May Predict Treatment Response and Outcome in Membranous Nephropathy
Authors: Qu Zhen , Zhang Mu-fan , Cui Zhao , Wang Jia , Wang Miao , Zhang Yi-miao , Wang Fang , Wang Xin , Meng Li-qiang , Cheng Xu-yang , Liu Gang , Zhao Ming-hui
Published: November 2018

Background: Anti-phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) antibodies are specific to the diagnosis of primary membranous nephropathy (pMN). The prevalence of positive antibodies varies among different cohorts. Still there is discrepancy in regard to the association between antibody levels and clinical courses, and the prognostic value of antibodies to treatment responses and kidney outcomes. Methods: Three hundred fifty-nine consecutive kidney biopsy-proven pMN patients were enrolled. Anti-PLA2R antibodies were detected by immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: The positive rate of anti-PLA2R antibodies in pMN was 65.2% (234/359) by IFA and 56.3% (202/359) by ELISA. The antibody level presented positive correlation with urinary protein excretion (r = 0.164, p = 0.002). Detectable antibodies and a higher level of proteinuria were independent risk factors to no-remission after treatments (OR 3.15, p = 0.004; OR 1.11, p = 0.006) and were independent risk factors to no-spontaneous remission (OR 2.20, p = 0.011; OR 1.36, p < 0.001). A higher level of antibodies (hazard ratio 1.002, p = 0.019) was the independent risk factor to kidney dysfunction during follow-up. The antibodies turned negative in 42 out of 52 (80.8%) patients who achieved clinical remission, while they remained positive in all patients of the no-response category (p < 0.001). Conclusion: We documented correlations between anti-PLA2R antibody levels and clinical severity in this large Chinese pMN cohort. Antibody positivity and higher antibody level might predict treatment responses and kidney outcomes of pMN.
Identifying High-Risk Individuals for Chronic Kidney Disease: Results of the CHERISH Community Demonstration Project
Authors: Burrows Nilka Ríos , Vassalotti Joseph A. , Saydah Sharon H. , Stewart Rebecca , Gannon Monica , Chen Shu-Cheng , Li Suying , Pederson Sarah , Collins Allan J. , Williams Desmond E.
Published: November 2018

Background: Most people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are not aware of their condition. Objectives: To assess screening criteria in identifying a population with or at high risk for CKD and to determine their level of control of CKD risk factors. Method: CKD Health Evaluation Risk Information Sharing (CHERISH), a demonstration project of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, hosted screenings at 2 community locations in each of 4 states. People with diabetes, hypertension, or aged ≥50 years were eligible to participate. In addition to CKD, screening included testing and measures of hemoglobin A1C, blood pressure, and lipids. ­Results: In this targeted population, among 894 people screened, CKD prevalence was 34%. Of participants with diabetes, 61% had A1C < 7%; of those with hypertension, 23% had blood pressure < 130/80 mm Hg; and of those with high cholesterol, 22% had low-density lipoprotein < 100 mg/dL. Conclusions: Using targeted selection criteria and simple clinical measures, CHERISH successfully identified a population with a high CKD prevalence and with poor control of CKD risk factors. CHERISH may prove helpful to state and local programs in implementing CKD detection programs in their communities.