bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterizing the function of EPB41L4A in the predisposition to papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Comiskey Daniel F. , He Huiling , Liyanarachchi Sandya , Sheikh Mehek S. , Hendrickson Isabella V. , Yu Lianbo , Brock Pamela L. , de la Chapelle Albert
Published: November 2020

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common histotype of thyroid carcinoma. The heritability of PTC is high compared to other cancers, but its underlying causes are unknown. A recent genome-wide association study revealed the association of a variant at the 5q22 locus, rs73227498, with PTC predisposition. We report that rs17134155, a variant in high linkage disequilibrium with rs73227498, is located in an enhancer region downstream of coding transcripts of EPB41L4A. Rs17134155 showed significant enhancer activity in luciferase assays, and haplotypes containing the protective allele of this variant conferred a significantly lower risk of PTC. While the index SNP, rs73227498, acted as a significant cis-eQTL for expression of EPB41L4A, rs17134155 was a significant cis-sQTL for the alternative splicing of a non-coding transcript of EPB41L4A, called EPB41L4A-203. We also performed knockdown of EPB41L4A followed by microarray analysis. Some of the top differentially-expressed genes were represented among regulators of the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway. Our results indicate that an enhancer region at 5q22 regulates the expression and splicing of EPB41L4A transcripts. We also provide evidence that EPB41L4A expression is involved in regulating growth and differentiation pathways, suggesting that decreased expression of EPB41L4A is a mechanism in the predisposition to PTC.
Specific decreasing of Na+ channel expression on the lateral membrane of cardiomyocytes causes fatal arrhythmias in Brugada syndrome
Authors: Tsumoto Kunichika , Ashihara Takashi , Naito Narumi , Shimamoto Takao , Amano Akira , Kurata Yasutaka , Kurachi Yoshihisa
Published: November 2020

Reduced cardiac sodium (Na+) channel current (INa) resulting from the loss-of-function of Na+ channel is a major cause of lethal arrhythmias in Brugada syndrome (BrS). Inspired by previous experimental studies which showed that in heart diseases INa was reduced along with expression changes in Na+ channel within myocytes, we hypothesized that the local decrease in INa caused by the alteration in Na+ channel expression in myocytes leads to the occurrence of phase-2 reentry, the major triggering mechanism of lethal arrhythmias in BrS. We constructed in silico human ventricular myocardial strand and ring models, and examined whether the Na+ channel expression changes in each myocyte cause the phase-2 reentry in BrS. Reducing Na+ channel expression in the lateral membrane of each myocyte caused not only the notch-and-dome but also loss-of-dome type action potentials and slowed conduction, both of which are typically observed in BrS patients. Furthermore, the selective reduction in Na+ channels on the lateral membrane of each myocyte together with spatial tissue heterogeneity of Na+ channel expression caused the phase-2 reentry and phase-2 reentry-mediated reentrant arrhythmias. Our data suggest that the BrS phenotype is strongly influenced by expression abnormalities as well as genetic abnormalities of Na+ channels.
The northernmost haulout site of South American sea lions and fur seals in the western South Atlantic
Authors: Procksch Natália , Grandi M. Florencia , Ott Paulo Henrique , Groch Karina , Flores Paulo A. C. , Zagonel Marcelo , Crespo Enrique A. , Machado Rodrigo , Pavez Guido , Guimarães Murilo , Veronez Maurício , de Oliveira Larissa Rosa
Published: November 2020

We present estimates of the seasonal and spatial occupation by pinnipeds of the Wildlife Refuge of Ilha dos Lobos (WRIL), based on aerial photographic censuses. Twenty aerial photographic censuses were analysed between July 2010 and November 2018. To assess monthly differences in the numbers of pinnipeds in the WRIL we used a Generalized Linear Mixed Model. Spatial analysis was carried out using Kernel density analysis of the pinnipeds on a grid plotted along the WRIL. Subadult male South American sea lions (Otaria flavescens) were the most abundant pinniped in the WRIL. Potential females of this species were also recorded during half of the census. The maximum number of pinnipeds observed in the WRIL was 304 in September 2018, including an unexpected individual southern elephant seal (Mirounga leonina), and a high number of South American fur seal yearlings (Arctocephalus australis). However, there was no statistically significant difference in counts between months. In all months analysed, pinnipeds were most often found concentrated in the northern portion of the island, with the highest abundances reported in September. This study confirms the importance of the WRIL as a haulout site for pinnipeds in Brazil, recommends that land research and recreational activities occur in months when no pinnipeds are present, and encourages a regulated marine mammal-based tourism during winter and spring months.
Investigation of the crystallization process of CSD-ErBCO on IBAD-substrate via DSD approach
Authors: Hayasaka R. , Cayado P. , Erbe M. , Freitag W. , Hänisch J. , Holzapfel B. , Ito S. , Hashizume H.
Published: November 2020

REBa2Cu3O7-δ (REBCO, RE: rare earth, such as Y and Gd) compounds have been extensively studied as a superconducting layer in coated conductors. Although ErBCO potentially has better superconducting properties than YBCO and GdBCO, little research has been made on it, especially in chemical solution deposition (CSD). In this work, ErBCO films were deposited on IBAD (ion-beam-assisted-deposition) substrates by CSD with low-fluorine solutions. The crystallization process was optimized to achieve the highest self-field critical current density (Jc) at 77 K. Commonly, for the investigation of a CSD process involving numerous process factors, one factor is changed keeping the others constant, requiring much time and cost. For more efficient investigation, this study adopted a novel design-of-experiment technique, definitive screening design (DSD), for the first time in CSD process. Two different types of solutions containing Er-propionate or Er-acetate were used to make two types of samples, Er-P and Er-A, respectively. Within the investigated range, we found that crystallization temperature, dew point, and oxygen partial pressure play a key role in Er-P, while the former two factors are significant for Er-A. DSD revealed these significant factors among six process factors with only 14 trials. Moreover, the DSD approach allowed us to create models that predict Jc accurately. These models revealed the optimum conditions giving the highest Jc values of 3.6 MA/cm2 for Er-P and 3.0 MA/cm2 for Er-A. These results indicate that DSD is an attractive approach to optimize CSD process.
Acute kidney injury risk in orthopaedic trauma patients pre and post surgery using a biomarker algorithm and clinical risk score
Authors: Kurth Mary Jo , McBride William T. , McLean Gavin , Watt Joanne , Domanska Anna , Lamont John V. , Maguire Daniel , Fitzgerald Peter , Ruddock Mark W.
Published: November 2020

Acute kidney injury (AKI) after major trauma is associated with increased mortality. The aim of this study was to assess if measurement of blood biomarkers in combination with clinical characteristics could be used to develop a tool to assist clinicians in identifying which orthopaedic trauma patients are at risk of AKI. This is a prospective study of 237 orthopaedic trauma patients who were consecutively scheduled for open reduction and internal fixation of their fracture between May 2012 and August 2013. Clinical characteristics were recorded, and 28 biomarkers were analysed in patient blood samples. Post operatively a combination of H-FABP, sTNFR1 and MK had the highest predictive ability to identify patients at risk of developing AKI (AUROC 0.885). Three clinical characteristics; age, dementia and hypertension were identified in the orthopaedic trauma patients as potential risks for the development of AKI. Combining biomarker data with clinical characteristics allowed us to develop a proactive AKI clinical tool, which grouped patients into four risk categories that were associated with a clinical management regime that impacted patient care, management, length of hospital stay, and efficient use of hospital resources.
Follistatin expressed in mechanically-damaged salivary glands of male mice induces proliferation of CD49f+ cells
Authors: Ikeda A. , Yamamoto T. , Mineshiba J. , Takashiba S.
Published: November 2020

Salivary glands (SGs) are very important for maintaining the physiological functions of the mouth. When SGs regenerate and repair from various damages, including mechanical, radiological, and immune diseases, acinar and granular duct cells originate from intercalated duct cells. However, the recovery is often insufficient because of SGs' limited self-repair function. Furthermore, the precise repair mechanism has been unclear. Here, we focused on CD49f, one of the putative stem cell markers, and characterized CD49f positive cells (CD49f+ cells) isolated from male murine SGs. CD49f+ cells possess self-renewal ability and express epithelial and pluripotent markers. Compared to CD49f negative cells, freshly isolated CD49f+ cells highly expressed inhibin beta A and beta B, which are components of activin that has anti-proliferative effects. Notably, an inhibitor of activin, follistatin was expressed in mechanically-damaged SGs, meanwhile no follistatin was expressed in normal SGs in vivo. Moreover, sub-cultured CD49f+ cells highly expressed both Follistatin and a series of proliferative genes, expressions of which were decreased by Follistatin siRNA. These findings indicated that the molecular interaction between activin and follistatin may induce CD49f+ cells proliferation in the regeneration and repair of mouse SGs.
Solution-processed, semitransparent organic photovoltaics integrated with solution-doped graphene electrodes
Authors: Chang Jan-Kai , Huang Yu-Yun , Lin Ding-Lun , Tau Jieh-I. , Chen Ting-Hao , Chen Mei-Hsin
Published: November 2020

In this work, by applying a transfer method simultaneously with a solution doping process for graphene as top electrodes, we demonstrate a solution-processed semitransparent organic photovoltaics (OPV). The work function of doped graphene under various doping conditions was investigated via photoemission spectroscopy. The transparent device was fabricated using PEDOT-doped graphene as electrodes, which provide an energetically favorable band alignment for carrier extractions. The solution-processed semitransparent organic photovoltaics exhibit the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 4.2%, which is 85.7% of the PCE of control devices based on metallic reflecting electrodes, while maintaining good transparency at most visible wavelengths.
Peripheral oxytocin injection modulates vomeronasal sensory activity and reduces pup-directed aggression in male mice
Authors: Nakahara Thiago S. , Camargo Antonio P. , Magalhães Pedro H. M. , Souza Mateus A. A. , Ribeiro Pedro G. , Martins-Netto Paulo H. , Carvalho Vinicius M. A. , José Juliana , Papes Fabio
Published: November 2020

Behaviors are shaped by hormones, which may act either by changing brain circuits or by modifying sensory detection of relevant cues. Pup-directed behaviors have been previously shown to change via action of hormones at the brain level. Here, we investigated hormonal control of pup-induced activity in the vomeronasal organ, an olfactory sensory structure involved in the detection of non-volatile chemosignals. Vomeronasal activity decreases as males switch from a pup-aggressive state to a non-aggressive parenting state, after they socially contact a female. RNA sequencing, qPCR, and in situ hybridization were used to identify expression, in the vomeronasal sensory epithelium, of candidate GPCR hormone receptors chosen by in silico analyses and educated guesses. After identifying that oxytocin and vasopressin receptors are expressed in the vomeronasal organ, we injected the corresponding hormones in mice and showed that oxytocin administration reduced both pup-induced vomeronasal activity and aggressive behavior. Conversely, injection of an oxytocin receptor antagonist in female-primed male animals, which normally exhibit reduced vomeronasal activity, significantly increased the number of active vomeronasal neurons. These data link oxytocin to the modulation of olfactory sensory activity, providing a possible mechanism for changes in male behavior after social experience with females.
Au–Ag alloy nanoparticle-incorporated AgBr plasmonic photocatalyst
Authors: Naya Shin-ichi , Tada Hiroaki
Published: November 2020

A solid-phase photochemical method produces Au–Ag alloy nanoparticles (NPs) with a sharp size distribution and varying composition in AgBr crystals (Au–Ag@AgBr). These features render Au–Ag@AgBr promising as a material for the plasmonic photocatalyst further to provide a possibility of elucidating the action mechanism due to the optical tunability. This study shows that the visible-light activity of Au–Ag@AgBr for degradation of model water pollutant is very sensitive to the alloy composition with a maximum at the mole percent of Au to all Ag in AgBr (y) = 0.012 mol%. Clear positive correlation is observed between the photocatalytic activity and the quality factor defined as the ratio of the peak energy to the full width at half maximum of the localized surface plasmon resonance band. This finding indicates that Au–Ag@AgBr works as a local electromagnetic field enhancement-type plasmonic photocatalyst in which the Au–Ag NPs mainly promotes the charge separation. This conclusion was further supported by the kinetic analysis of the light intensity-dependence of external quantum yield.
Corticotropin-releasing factor infusion in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis of lactating mice alters maternal care and induces behavioural phenotypes in offspring
Authors: Creutzberg Kerstin Camile , Kestering-Ferreira Érika , Viola Thiago Wendt , Wearick-Silva Luis Eduardo , Orso Rodrigo , Heberle Bernardo Aguzzoli , Albrechet-Souza Lucas , de Almeida Rosa Maria Martins , Grassi-Oliveira Rodrigo
Published: November 2020

The peripartum period is accompanied by numerous physiological and behavioural adaptations organised by the maternal brain. These changes are essential for adequate expression of maternal behaviour, thereby ensuring proper development of the offspring. The corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) plays a key role in a variety of behaviours accompanying stress, anxiety, and depression. There is also evidence that CRF contributes to maladaptations during the peripartum period. We investigated the effects of CRF in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) of lactating mice during maternal care and analysed locomotor activity and anxiety-like behaviour in the offspring. The BNST has been implicated in anxiety behaviour and regulation of the stress response. The effects of intra-BNST CRF administration were compared with those induced by the limited bedding (LB) procedure, a model that produces altered maternal behaviour. BALB/cJ dams were exposed to five infusions of CRF or saline into the BNST in the first weeks after birth while the LB dams were exposed to limited nesting material from postnatal days (P) 2–9. Maternal behaviour was recorded in intercalated days, from P1-9. Offspring anxiety-like behaviour was assessed during adulthood using the open-field, elevated plus-maze, and light/dark tests. Both intra-BNST CRF and LB exposure produced altered maternal care, represented by decreased arched-back nursing and increased frequency of exits from the nest. These changes in maternal care resulted in robust sex-based differences in the offspring’s behavioural responses during adulthood. Females raised by CRF-infused dams exhibited increased anxiety-like behaviour, whereas males presented a significant decrease in anxiety. On the other hand, both males and females raised by dams exposed to LB showed higher locomotor activity. Our study demonstrates that maternal care is impaired by intra-BNST CRF administrations, and these maladaptations are similar to exposure to adverse early environments. These procedures, however, produce distinct phenotypes in mice during young adulthood and suggest sex-based differences in the susceptibility to poor maternal care.
Increased choroidal thickness is not a disease progression marker in keratoconus
Authors: Pinheiro-Costa João , Correia Paulo Jorge , Pinto João Viana , Alves Hélio , Torrão Luís , Moreira Raul , Falcão Manuel , Carneiro Ângela , Madeira Maria Dulce , Falcão-Reis Fernando
Published: November 2020

The recent findings of increased Choroidal Thickness (CT) in Keratoconus (KC) patients raised the question of whether CT could be an indicator of progressive KC. To test this hypothesis, we evaluated and compared the choroidal profile in progressive and non-progressive KC. We ran a cross-sectional observational study in 76 patients diagnosed with KC, age 14–30, to assess KC progression. Progression was defined as when at least two of the studied variables confirmed progression (Kmax, Km, PachyMin, D-Index, Astig, K2, 3 mm PCR). Included patients performed a Spectralis Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) with enhanced depth image (EDI) technology to evaluate choroidal profile. Choroidal measurements were taken subfoveally and at 500 µm intervals from the fovea, in 7 different locations, and compared between groups. Multivariate linear regression analyses were also performed to assess the influence of CT in KC progression. Thirty-six eyes (47.4%) were classified as KC progressors. The mean subfoveal CT observed in the total sample was 382.0 (± 97.0) μm. The comparison between groups (progressive and non-progressive KC) showed no differences in the locations evaluated (mean subfoveal CT difference between groups was 2.4 μm, p = 0.915). In the multivariate analysis CT seems not be influenced by KC progression (B = 6.72 μm, 95% CI − 40.09 to 53.53, p = 0.775). Assessment of choroidal profile does not appear to be a useful tool to differentiate progressive and non-progressive KC. Further research is needed in order to better understand the role of choroid in KC.
Best Practices for Design and Characterization of Covalent Chemical Probes
Authors: Gabizon Ronen , Resnick Efrat , London Nir
Published: November 2020

Covalent chemical probes are able to display incomparable potency and selectivity while targeting challenging binding sites and non-traditional protein targets. The development of such covalent probes entails additional requirements. On the one hand, covalent probes require careful accounting for their reactivity, the evaluation of formation of the covalent bond and kinetic measurement of activity. On the other hand, they also allow relatively simple target cellular engagement assessment and an elaborate view of cellular off-targets. This chapter describes common methods, examples and best practices for the discovery, optimization and evaluation of covalent chemical probes and suggests general criteria to strive for in their development.
Cyclic Peptides as Chemical Probes
Authors: Serrano L. , Roper G. , Kawamura A.
Published: November 2020

Cyclic peptides are an exciting class of compounds that are currently underexploited as chemical probes. Recent advances in peptide chemistry, screening and sequencing technologies have permitted the efficient generation and screening of natural product-like cyclic peptide libraries to identify high-affinity and -selectivity ligands against targets of interest, providing new opportunities for the development of chemical probes, including for challenging targets. This chapter reviews recent advances in cyclic peptide technologies and provides examples where cyclic peptides have been used to study the biology of their targets.
Chemical Probes in Cellular Assays for Target Validation and Screening in Neurodegeneration
Authors: Silva Ana M. , Cederbalk Anna , Ebner Daniel , Daniel Elena Di
Published: November 2020

The mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases remain poorly understood, compromising the development of effective therapies. Chemical probes are useful tools to investigate the biological relevance of potential targets in cell-based disease models. This chapter reviews compounds that have emerged from cellular target-based and phenotypic screenings, focusing on Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Further, it makes recommendations on the use of good chemical probes that may help improve our understanding of neurodegeneration and serve as leads for therapeutic development.
Fluorescent macrolide probes – synthesis and use in evaluation of bacterial resistance
Authors: Stone M. Rhia L. , Łapińska Urszula , Pagliara Stefano , Masi Muriel , Blanchfield Joanne T. , Cooper Matthew A. , Blaskovich Mark A. T.
Published: November 2020

Macrolide fluorescent probes illuminate the interactions between antibiotics and bacteria, providing new insight into mechanisms of resistance.
Density functional theory based embedding approaches for transition-metal complexes
Authors: Bensberg Moritz , Neugebauer Johannes
Published: November 2020

Density functional theory based embedding approaches for the description of chemical reactions are reviewed for their applicability to transition metal species.
Effects of NaClO shock on MBR performance under continuous operating conditions
Authors: Sun Ming , Hou Bingdong , Wang Shengli , Zhao Qiannan , Zhang Lanhe , Song Lianfa , Zhang Haifeng
Published: November 2020

The NaClO-shocked sludge had a self-recovery ability, and with the gradual improvement of sludge properties, membrane fouling was reduced.
Colorimetric and fluorometric probes for the optical detection of environmental Hg(ii) and As(iii) ions
Authors: Samanta Tapendu , Shunmugam Raja
Published: November 2020

Human exposure to Hg(ii) and As(iii) can lead to several physiological problems such as liver damage, kidney damage, lung cancer, skin cancer, motion disorder, brain damage, etc. As a result monitor and identify of these elements are very much necessary.
Porous flexible frameworks: origins of flexibility and applications
Authors: Seth Saona , Jhulki Samik
Published: November 2020

All major classes of porous crystalline frameworks including zeolites, metal–organic frameworks, covalent organic frameworks and hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks exhibit structural flexibilities.
Synthesis of dibutyl-trimethylsilanylmethyl-amine and its application towards SO2 absorption with phase change behaviors
Authors: Hao Bo , Zhao Wenbo , Feng Dong , Xu Shengchao , Chen Yuan
Published: November 2020

The solution is divided into two phases, along with SO2 in the flue gas is absorbed. The two phases form a SO2 absorption solution once again, after the SO2 in the SO2-rich phase is released.
Nickel selenide from single-molecule electrodeposition for efficient electrocatalytic overall water splitting
Authors: Chen Dandan , Chen Yingdong , Zhang Wei , Cao Rui
Published: November 2020

The prepared electrode (NiSe-TMEDA/CC) from single-molecule electrodeposition is functional for both the OER and HER and shows a superior performance for overall water splitting with a low cell voltage in alkaline medium.
Synergistic integration of FeNi magnetic nanoparticles with graphene-based porous carbon for efficient capture of N-linked glycans
Authors: Wang Yang , Wang Jiaxi , Li Jie , Ling Yun , Jia Yu , Yang Yongtai , Liu Xiaofeng , Zhang Xiangmin , Zhou Yaming
Published: November 2020

Ferronickel graphene-based porous carbon composites are facilely prepared, which can remarkably enrich N-linked glycans from standard bio-samples and real human serum, resulting in the successful profiling of 48 N-linked glycans in 5 μL human serum.
The recovery of nano-sized carbon black filler structure and its contribution to stress recovery in rubber nanocomposites
Authors: Chen Liang , Wu Lihui , Song Lixian , Xia Zhijie , Lin Yuanfei , Chen Wei , Li Liangbin
Published: November 2020

The hierarchical structural evolution of natural rubber (NR) filled with different contents of nanoscale carbon black after first loading and recovering for different times.
A complex-amplitude hologram using an ultra-thin dielectric metasurface
Authors: Jiang Qiang , Cao Liangcai , Huang Lingling , He Zehao , Jin Guofan
Published: November 2020

An ultrathin dielectric metasurface which can modulate the complex amplitude in the transmission mode is proposed for a metasurface complex hologram.
Enzyme-responsive polymeric micelles with fluorescence fabricated through aggregation-induced copolymer self-assembly for anticancer drug delivery
Authors: Yan Ke , Zhang Shujing , Zhang Kun , Miao Yalei , Qiu Yudian , Zhang Panke , Jia Xu , Zhao Xubo
Published: November 2020

The TPE moiety with AIE is employed as functional hydrophobic chain to induce copolymer self-assembly and form polymeric micelle that can show enzyme-responsive drug delivery.
Enhancing bifunctional catalytic activity of cobalt–nickel sulfide spinel nanocatalysts through transition metal doping and its application in secondary zinc–air batteries
Authors: Xu Yijie , Sumboja Afriyanti , Groves Alexandra , Ashton Thomas , Zong Yun , Darr Jawwad A.
Published: November 2020

Transition metal-doped cobalt–nickel sulfide spinel (Ni1.29Co1.49Mn0.22S4) nanocatalysts for secondary Zn–air batteries with an efficient and stable electrochemical performance.
Reactive behavior of isoquinoline alkaloid in a green reduction process assisted by ionic liquids and solvent-free techniques
Authors: Tang Jie , Toufouki Sara , Yohannes Alula , Yao Shun
Published: November 2020

Green reduction was assisted by ionic liquid and solvent-free technologies and a reaction in a tablet was realized for the first time.
Ultrasensitive single-cell proteomics workflow identifies >1000 protein groups per mammalian cell
Authors: Cong Yongzheng , Motamedchaboki Khatereh , Misal Santosh A. , Liang Yiran , Guise Amanda J. , Truong Thy , Huguet Romain , Plowey Edward D. , Zhu Ying , Lopez-Ferrer Daniel , Kelly Ryan T.
Published: November 2020

The combination of nanodroplet sample preparation, ultra-low-flow nanoLC, high-field asymmetric ion mobility spectrometry (FAIMS) and latest-generation mass spectrometry instrumentation provides dramatically improved single-cell proteome profiling.
Synergistic effect of hydrophobic and hydrogen bonding interaction-driven viologen–pyranine charge-transfer aggregates: adenosine monophosphate recognition
Authors: Narendran Redhills L. , Patnaik Archita
Published: November 2020

Synergy between non-covalent interactions directing and fine-tuning self-assembly of electronically and electrostatically complementary molecules in water into stimuli responsive microscale aggregates.
Carbon block anodes with columnar nanopores constructed from amine-functionalized carbon nanosheets for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Zhang Yue , Zhang Zihe , Tang Yakun , Jia Dianzeng , Huang Yudai , Guo Yong , Zhou Zhen
Published: November 2020

The amine-functionalized carbon material exhibits superior rate and cycling performances, which are closely correlated to the surface-dominated mechanism in Na storage, as well as the enhancement of electronic interactions induced by amine groups.
Lead or no lead? Availability, toxicity, sustainability and environmental impact of lead-free perovskite solar cells
Authors: Schileo Giorgio , Grancini Giulia
Published: November 2020

The presence of lead in perovskite solar cells represents for many a cause of concern. However, alternative elements for lead-free perovskites also present several concerns in terms of toxicity, cost and environmental impact so far neglected.
Mechanisms and consequences of dysregulation of the Tiam family of Rac activators in disease
Authors: Maltas Joe , Reed Hannah , Porter Andrew , Malliri Angeliki
Published: November 2020

The Tiam family proteins — Tiam1 and Tiam2/STEF — are Rac1-specific Guanine Nucleotide Exchange Factors (GEFs) with important functions in epithelial, neuronal, immune and other cell types. Tiam GEFs regulate cellular migration, proliferation and survival, mainly through activating and directing Rac1 signalling. Dysregulation of the Tiam GEFs is significantly associated with human diseases including cancer, immunological and neurological disorders. Uncovering the mechanisms and consequences of dysregulation is therefore imperative to improving the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Here we compare and contrast the subcellular localisation and function of Tiam1 and Tiam2/STEF, and review the evidence for their dysregulation in disease.
Epigenetic silencing of miR564 contributes to the leukemogenesis of t(8;21) acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Yang Erna , Guan Wei , Gong Desheng , Gao Xuefeng , Han Caixia , Zhang Juan , Wang Hong , Wang Mengzhen , Li Yonghui , Yu Li
Published: November 2020

The AML1-ETO oncoprotein, which results from t(8;21) translocation, is considered an initial event of t(8;21) acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, the precise mechanisms of the oncogenic activity of AML1-ETO is yet to be fully determined. The present study demonstrates that AML1-ETO triggers the heterochromatic silencing of microRNA-564 (miR564) by binding at the AML1 binding site along the miR564 promoter region and recruiting chromatin-remodeling enzymes. Suppression of miR564 enhances the oncogenic activity of the AML1-ETO oncoprotein by directly inhibiting the expression of CCND1 and the DNMT3A genes. Ectopic expression of miR564 can induce retardation of G1/S transition, reperform differentiation, promote apoptosis, as well as inhibit the proliferation and colony formation of AML1-ETO+ leukemia cells in vitro. Enhanced miR564 levels can significantly inhibit the tumor proliferation of t(8;21)AML in vivo. We first identify an unexpected and important epigenetic circuitry of AML1-ETO/miR564/CCND1/DNMT3A that contributes to the leukemogenesis in vitro/vivo of AML1-ETO+ leukemia, indicating that miR564 enhancement could provide a potential therapeutic method for AML1-ETO+ leukemia.
Vowel Accuracy and Segmental Variability Differentiate Children With Developmental Language Disorder in Nonword Repetition
Authors: Vuolo Janet , Goffman Lisa
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Poor nonword repetition accuracy is a hallmark of children with developmental language disorder (DLD). However, other diagnostic categories also show impaired nonword repetition performance relative to children with typical development (TD); therefore, this task is currently a sensitive but nonspecific index of DLD. In this study, we investigated segmental and kinematic aspects of nonword repetition performance to further specify the diagnostic utility of nonword repetition tasks (NRTs) in diagnosing DLD.

Method

Forty children, ages 48–86 months, participated, including children with DLD (
n
= 12), speech sound disorder (SSD;
n
= 14), and TD (
n
= 14). All children completed an assessment battery to determine group classification, a classic NRT (
Dollaghan & Campbell, 1998
), and an experimental NRT designed to measure segmental and articulatory (specifically lip aperture) variability. We assessed nonword repetition accuracy in the classic and experimental NRTs and segmental and kinematic variability in the experimental NRT.

Results

In both the classic and experimental NRTs, children with SSD and DLD produced nonwords with lower phoneme and consonant accuracy compared to children with TD. Children with DLD produced more vowel errors compared to children with TD in both tasks. In the experimental NRT, children with DLD produced nonwords with high levels of segmental variability compared to children with TD. Children with SSD did not differ from children with TD or children with DLD in the vowel accuracy or the segmental variability measures. The articulatory variability measure did not reveal any group differences.

Conclusions

In the presence of speech sound difficulties, low nonword repetition accuracy does not aid in the diagnosis of DLD. However, vowel accuracy and segmental variability appear specific to DLD status in NRTs.
Effects of Embedding Decontextualized Language Through Book-Sharing Delivered by Mothers and Fathers in Coparenting Environments
Authors: Seven Yagmur , Ferron John , Goldstein Howard
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This experiment investigated the effects of a book-sharing intervention implemented in coparenting homes on the conversations of preschoolers with their parents.

Method

A multiple baseline design across behaviors was used to evaluate the effects of embedding decontextualized language utterances during book-sharing delivered by four families. A visual analysis, a two-level mixed-effects model, and a social validity evaluation were used to examine the varying effects of the program on mothers and fathers' storybook conversations.

Results

Embedding decontextualized language prompts in books not only increased parental decontextualized language utterances, but most parents were able to maintain use of strategies without prompts in the books. The intervention effects were consistently higher for parents than for their children. Social validity results demonstrated parental satisfaction with program delivery and content.

Conclusion

This study adds to the limited literature on father–child and mother–child decontextualized conversations during book-sharing and illustrates a feasible and adaptable way of promoting language experiences in the home that yield engaging decontextualized conversations in meaningful book-reading contexts.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.13210799
Reading Ability and Working Memory in School-Age Children Who Are Deaf and Hard of Hearing Using Cochlear Implants and/or Hearing Aids: A 3-Year Follow-Up on Computer-Based Phonics Training
Authors: Nakeva von Mentzer Cecilia , Wallfelt Sonia , Engström Elisabet , Wass Malin , Sahlén Birgitta , Pfändtner Karin , Lyxell Björn , Kallioinen Petter , Lindgren† Magnus , Ors Marianne , Uhlén Inger
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The aim of the current study was to investigate reading ability in children who are deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) using cochlear implants (CI) or hearing aids (HA) 3 years after computer-assisted phonics intervention. Reading ability was examined in relation to cognitive and audiological aspects and compared to a reference group of children with typical hearing (TH).

Method

Participants were 73 Swedish primary school children (
Mdn
= 9 years). Fifty-five of the children were TH, and 18 children were DHH using CI (
n
= 10) or HA (
n
= 8). Twenty-seven of the children (all children who were DHH and nine of the children with TH) had participated in computer-based phonics intervention 3 years earlier. Children were assessed on word and nonword decoding, reading comprehension, and three working memory (WM) tasks. Age at diagnosis, age of amplification, and duration of unaided hearing loss formed the audiological variables.

Results

Comparable word decoding skills and reading comprehension were observed in all three groups (CI, HA, and TH). Children with CI showed strong and significant correlations between two aspects of WM capacity (phonological and complex WM) and all aspects of reading. For children with TH, similar but weaker correlations as in children with CI was observed, and correlations with visual WM were also evident. In children with HA only, complex WM correlated strongly and significantly with nonword decoding. Duration of unaided hearing loss was the single audiological variable that was significantly associated with reading.

Conclusions

This 3-year follow-up showed overall positive reading results at the group level in children who are DHH. However, some children still lag behind their peers with TH. Early hearing experience and intervention are stressed as crucial factors in preventing negative outcomes in these children.
Using radial velocities to reveal black holes in binaries: A test case
Authors: Clavel M. , Dubus G. , Casares J. , Babusiaux C.
Published: November 2020

Aims. Large radial velocity variations in the LAMOST spectra of giant stars have been used to infer the presence of unseen companions. Some of them have been proposed as possible black hole candidates. We test this selection by investigating the classification of the one candidate that has a known X-ray counterpart (UCAC4 721-037069).

Methods. We obtained time-resolved spectra from the Liverpool Telescope and a 5 ks observation from the Chandra observatory to fully constrain the orbital parameters and the X-ray emission of this system.

Results. We find the source to be an eclipsing stellar binary that can be classified as an RS CVn. The giant star fills its Roche lobe, and the binary mass ratio is greater than one. The system may be an example of stable mass transfer from an intermediate-mass star with a convective envelope.

Conclusions. Using only radial velocity to identify black hole candidates can lead to many false positives. The presence of an optical orbital modulation, such as what has been observed for all LAMOST candidates, will in most cases indicate that the system is a stellar binary.
Design of a superconducting machine and its cooling system for an aeronautics application
Authors: Colle Alexandre , Lubin Thierry , Leveque Jean
Published: November 2020

The transition to electric propulsion aircraft requires electrical motors or generators with high power density. The “zero resistivity” of the superconducting materials could be used in electrical machines to produce high magnetic fields and reduce the use of heavy components such as the ferromagnetic parts. The discovery and recent developments in High Temperature Superconductors (HTS) technology make the superconducting machine a serious candidate in the future of aircraft. The design of a superconducting machine is strongly dependent on its electromagnetic and thermal behavior. In this paper, the design of a 50 kW superconducting aircraft generator is presented. The mass of the cryogenic cooling system is included into the design in order to optimize the entire superconducting system. The study shows that the choice of the cooling temperature to reduce the mass of the superconducting machine and its cooling system will depends on the input power of the machine.
A scenario-based optimization model for planning and redesigning the sale and after-sales services closed-loop supply chain
Authors: Esmaeili Nazanin , Teimoury Ebrahim , Pourmohammadi Fahimeh
Published: November 2020

In today’s competitive world, the quality of after-sales services plays a significant role in customer satisfaction and customer retention. Some after-sales activities require spare parts and owing to the importance of customer satisfaction, the needed spare parts must be supplied until the end of the warranty period. In this study, a mixed-integer linear optimization model is presented to redesign and plan the sale and after-sales services supply chain that addresses the challenges of supplying spare parts after the production is stopped due to demand reduction. Three different options are considered for supplying spare parts, including production/procurement of extra parts while the product is being produced, remanufacturing, and procurement of parts just in time they are needed. Considering the challenges of supplying spare parts for after-sales services based on the product’s life cycle is one contribution of this paper. Also, this paper addresses the uncertainties associated with different parameters through Mulvey’s scenario-based optimization approach. Applicability of the model is investigated using a numerical example from the literature. The results indicate that the production/procurement of extra parts and remanufacturing are preferred to the third option. Moreover, remanufacturing is recommended when the remanufacturing cost is less than 23% of the production cost.
Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes by Degree of Maternal Serum Analyte Elevation: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Yeaton-Massey Amanda , Baer Rebecca J. , Rand Larry , Jelliffe-Pawlowski Laura L. , Lyell Deirdre J.
Published: November 2020

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate rates of preterm birth (PTB) and obstetric complication with maternal serum analytes > 2.5 multiples of the median (MoM) by degree of elevation.

Study Design Retrospective cohort study of singleton live-births participating in the California Prenatal Screening Program (2005–2011) examining PTB and obstetric complication for α-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), unconjugated estriol (uE3), and inhibin A (INH) by analyte subgroup (2.5 to < 6.0, 6.0 to < 10.0, and ≥ 10.0 MoM vs. < 2.5 MoM).

Results The risk of obstetric complication increased with increasing hCG, AFP, and INH MoM, and were greatest for AFP and INH of 6.0 to <10.0 MoM. The greatest risk of any adverse outcome was seen for hCG MoM ≥ 10.0, with relative risk (RR) of PTB < 34 weeks of 40.8 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 21.7–77.0) and 13.8 (95% CI: 8.2–23.1) for obstetric complication.

Conclusions In euploid, structurally normal fetuses, all analyte elevations > 2.5 MoM confer an increased risk of PTB and, except for uE3, obstetric complication, and risks for each are not uniformly linear. These data can help guide patient counseling and antenatal management.
California Cardiovascular Screening Tool: Findings from Initial Implementation
Authors: Blumenthal Elizabeth A. , Crosland B. Adam , Senderoff Dana , Santurino Kathryn , Garg Nisha , Bernstein Megan , Wolfe Diana , Hameed Afshan
Published: November 2020

Objective American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recently published the California (CA) cardiovascular disease (CVD) screening algorithm for pregnant and postpartum women. We aim to prospectively determine screen-positive and true-positive rates of CVD among women across two populations.

Study Design This is a prospective cohort study of obstetrical patients from April 2018 to July 2019 at academic medical centers in CA and New York (NY). We attempted to screen all patients at least once during their pregnancy care (prenatal or postpartum). Women who screened positive (“Red Flags,” >3–4 moderate risk factors, abnormal physical examination, and persistent symptoms) underwent further testing. The primary outcome was the screen-positive rate. Secondary outcomes included the true-positive rate and the strength of each moderate factor in predicting a positive CVD screen.

Results We screened 846 women. The overall screen-positive rate was 8% (5% in CA vs. 19% in NY). The sites differed in ethnicity, that is, African American women (2.7% in CA vs. 35% in NY, p < 0.01) and substance use (2.7 vs. 5.6%, p < 0.04). The true-positive rate was 1.5% at both sites. The percentage of screen-positive patients who did not complete follow-up studies was higher in NY (70%) than in CA (27%). CVD was confirmed in 30% with positive screens with complete follow-up. Combinations of moderate factors were the main driver of screen-positive rates in both populations.

Conclusion This is the first data describing the performance of the CVD screening algorithm in a general obstetric population. Factors, such as proportion of African American women affect the likelihood of a positive screen. The screening algorithm highlights patients at higher lifetime risk of CVD and may identify a group that could be targeted for more direct care transitions postpartum. Data may be used to design a larger validation study.
Neonatal Extremity Compartment Syndrome: A Rare Diagnosis Requiring Prompt Recognition
Authors: Severyn Nicholas T. , Kua Kok Lim
Published: November 2020

Neonatal extremity compartment syndrome is an extremely rare diagnosis. Risk factors that predispose infants to a hypercoagulable state or trauma have been implicated, but the exact mechanisms remain poorly understood. The hallmark of the condition is extremity swelling with sentinel skin changes. We report a case of upper extremity compartment syndrome from initial presentation until 3 months after discharge and discuss the importance of prompt diagnosis and timely surgical evaluation.
How likely was it for Trump to have infected Biden during the first 2020 presidential debate?
Authors: Bandari Anashe
Published: November 2020

The president and the first lady likely already had the coronavirus during the first presidential debate, and did not wear masks. Researchers analyzed the probability of infection at various locations within the debate hall.
A flexible self-recovery finger joint for a tendon-driven robot hand
Authors: Oh Dong Jun , Li Zheng Yuan , Kim Jae Hyeon , Choi Hyouk Ryeol , Moon Hyungpil , Koo Ja Choon
Published: November 2020

This paper presents a new biomimetic soft finger joint with elastic ligaments for enhanced restoration capability. A hemisphere-shaped flexible finger joint is designed to secure omnidirectional restoration and guarantee a reliable recovery function. Joint design comparative studies for enhancing restoration are presented with joint mechanisms and potential energy formulation analyses. A ligament design that enables an efficient grasping mode switch from power to pinch grasping is also considered. By using the presented joint and ligament, a tendon-driven robot hand is assembled. For the finger’s biomimetic features, the hand provides a reasonably secure grasping operation for various complicated objects with minimum controls. The impact test and grasping experiments confirmed that the fabricated hand has the right amount of passive compliance in all directions as designed, and the restoration to the original state is also stably performed.
Abnormal peak of angular-dependent Hall effect as an indicator for skyrmion in perpendicular magnetic anisotropy system
Authors: Tang Jiaxuan , Xu Guizhou , You Yurong , Xu Zhan , Zhang Zhi , Chen Xi , Gong Yuanyuan , Xu Feng
Published: November 2020

The anomalous Hall effect (AHE) has been extensively studied in terms of its diverse and profound physics, but the AHE behavior under spatially rotated external fields has not been well understood yet. Here, we selected a traditional CoFeB-based multilayer film as the platform, and by continuously tuning its magnetic anisotropy, we have observed the progressively evolved angular-dependence of the AHE, in which an abnormal turning peak emerged in the case of moderate perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA). By applying comprehensive micromagnetic simulations, a general model was established that can almost fully account for the existing trend of the angular AHE. The PMA magnitude, together with the multi-to-single domain transformation, determined the final behavior of the AHE at various magnetic-field-tilt angles. Notably, we identified a close relationship between the angular-Hall anomaly and formation of magnetic skyrmions, which can possibly offer an alternative method to detect the skyrmions.