| 1. |
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| 2. |
- Ariyawansa, Hiran A., et al.
(author)
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Fungal diversity notes 111–252—taxonomic and phylogenetic contributions to fungal taxa
- 2015
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In: Fungal diversity. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1560-2745 .- 1878-9129. ; 75, s. 27-274
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This paper is a compilation of notes on 142 fungal taxa, including five new families, 20 new genera, and 100 new species, representing a wide taxonomic and geographic range. The new families, Ascocylindricaceae, Caryosporaceae and Wicklowiaceae (Ascomycota) are introduced based on their distinct lineages and unique morphology. The new Dothideomycete genera Pseudomassariosphaeria (Amniculicolaceae), Heracleicola, Neodidymella and P s e u d o m i c ros p h a e r i o p s i s ( D id y m e l l a c e a e ) , P s e u d o p i t h o m y c e s ( D i d y m o s p h a e r i a c e a e ) , Brunneoclavispora, Neolophiostoma and Sulcosporium (Halotthiaceae), Lophiohelichrysum (Lophiostomataceae), G a l l i i c o l a , Popul o c re s c e n t i a a nd Va g i c o l a (Phaeosphaeriaceae), Ascocylindrica (Ascocylindricaceae), E l o n g a t o p e d i c e l l a t a ( R o u s s o e l l a c e a e ) , Pseudoasteromassaria (Latoruaceae) and Pseudomonodictys (Macrodiplodiopsidaceae) are introduced. The newly described species of Dothideomycetes (Ascomycota) are Pseudomassariosphaeria bromicola (Amniculicolaceae), Flammeascoma lignicola (Anteagloniaceae), Ascocylindrica marina (Ascocylindricaceae) , Lembosia xyliae (Asterinaceae), Diplodia crataegicola and Diplodia galiicola ( B o t r yosphae r i a cea e ) , Caryospor a aquat i c a (Caryosporaceae), Heracleicola premilcurensis and Neodi dymell a thai landi cum (Didymellaceae) , Pseudopithomyces palmicola (Didymosphaeriaceae), Floricola viticola (Floricolaceae), Brunneoclavispora bambusae, Neolophiostoma pigmentatum and Sulcosporium thailandica (Halotthiaceae), Pseudoasteromassaria fagi (Latoruaceae), Keissleriella dactylidicola (Lentitheciaceae), Lophiohelichrysum helichrysi (Lophiostomataceae), Aquasubmersa japonica (Lophiotremataceae) , Pseudomonodictys tectonae (Macrodiplodiopsidaceae), Microthyrium buxicola and Tumidispora shoreae (Microthyriaceae), Alloleptosphaeria clematidis, Allophaeosphaer i a c y t i s i , Allophaeosphae r i a subcylindrospora, Dematiopleospora luzulae, Entodesmium artemisiae, Galiicola pseudophaeosphaeria, Loratospora(Basidiomycota) are introduced together with a new genus Neoantrodiella (Neoantrodiellaceae), here based on both morphology coupled with molecular data. In the class Agaricomycetes, Agaricus pseudolangei, Agaricus haematinus, Agaricus atrodiscus and Agaricus exilissimus (Agaricaceae) , Amanita m e l l e i a l b a , Amanita pseudosychnopyramis and Amanita subparvipantherina (Amanitaceae), Entoloma calabrum, Cora barbulata, Dictyonema gomezianum and Inocybe granulosa (Inocybaceae), Xerocomellus sarnarii (Boletaceae), Cantharellus eucalyptorum, Cantharellus nigrescens, Cantharellus tricolor and Cantharellus variabilicolor (Cantharellaceae), Cortinarius alboamarescens, Cortinarius brunneoalbus, Cortinarius ochroamarus, Cortinarius putorius and Cortinarius seidlii (Cortinariaceae), Hymenochaete micropora and Hymenochaete subporioides (Hymenochaetaceae), Xylodon ramicida (Schizoporaceae), Colospora andalasii (Polyporaceae), Russula guangxiensis and Russula hakkae (Russulaceae), Tremella dirinariae, Tremella graphidis and Tremella pyrenulae (Tremellaceae) are introduced. Four new combinations Neoantrodiella gypsea, Neoantrodiella thujae (Neoantrodiellaceae), Punctulariopsis cremeoalbida, Punctulariopsis efibulata (Punctulariaceae) are also introduced here for the division Basidiomycota. Furthermore Absidia caatinguensis, Absidia koreana and Gongronella koreana (Cunninghamellaceae), Mortierella pisiformis and Mortierella formosana (Mortierellaceae) are newly introduced in the Zygomycota, while Neocallimastix cameroonii and Piromyces irregularis (Neocallimastigaceae) ar e i n t roduced i n the Neocallimastigomycota. Reference specimens or changes in classification and notes are provided for Alternaria ethzedia, Cucurbitaria ephedricola, Austropleospora, Austropleospora archidendri, Byssosphaeria rhodomphala, Lophiostoma caulium, Pseudopithomyces maydicus, Massariosphaeria, Neomassariosphaeria and Pestalotiopsis montellica.
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| 3. |
- Klionsky, Daniel J., et al.
(author)
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Guidelines for the use and interpretation of assays for monitoring autophagy
- 2012
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In: Autophagy. - : Informa UK Limited. - 1554-8635 .- 1554-8627. ; 8:4, s. 445-544
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In 2008 we published the first set of guidelines for standardizing research in autophagy. Since then, research on this topic has continued to accelerate, and many new scientists have entered the field. Our knowledge base and relevant new technologies have also been expanding. Accordingly, it is important to update these guidelines for monitoring autophagy in different organisms. Various reviews have described the range of assays that have been used for this purpose. Nevertheless, there continues to be confusion regarding acceptable methods to measure autophagy, especially in multicellular eukaryotes. A key point that needs to be emphasized is that there is a difference between measurements that monitor the numbers or volume of autophagic elements (e.g., autophagosomes or autolysosomes) at any stage of the autophagic process vs. those that measure flux through the autophagy pathway (i.e., the complete process); thus, a block in macroautophagy that results in autophagosome accumulation needs to be differentiated from stimuli that result in increased autophagic activity, defined as increased autophagy induction coupled with increased delivery to, and degradation within, lysosomes (in most higher eukaryotes and some protists such as Dictyostelium) or the vacuole (in plants and fungi). In other words, it is especially important that investigators new to the field understand that the appearance of more autophagosomes does not necessarily equate with more autophagy. In fact, in many cases, autophagosomes accumulate because of a block in trafficking to lysosomes without a concomitant change in autophagosome biogenesis, whereas an increase in autolysosomes may reflect a reduction in degradative activity. Here, we present a set of guidelines for the selection and interpretation of methods for use by investigators who aim to examine macroautophagy and related processes, as well as for reviewers who need to provide realistic and reasonable critiques of papers that are focused on these processes. These guidelines are not meant to be a formulaic set of rules, because the appropriate assays depend in part on the question being asked and the system being used. In addition, we emphasize that no individual assay is guaranteed to be the most appropriate one in every situation, and we strongly recommend the use of multiple assays to monitor autophagy. In these guidelines, we consider these various methods of assessing autophagy and what information can, or cannot, be obtained from them. Finally, by discussing the merits and limits of particular autophagy assays, we hope to encourage technical innovation in the field.
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| 4. |
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- 2019
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)
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| 5. |
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| 6. |
- Gou, De Hai, et al.
(author)
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Inhibition of copper transporter 1 prevents α-synuclein pathology and alleviates nigrostriatal degeneration in AAV-based mouse model of Parkinson's disease
- 2021
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In: Redox Biology. - : Elsevier BV. - 2213-2317. ; 38
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The formation of α-synuclein aggregates is a major pathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease. Copper promotes α-synuclein aggregation and toxicity in vitro. The level of copper and copper transporter 1, which is the only known high-affinity copper importer in the brain, decreases in the substantia nigra of Parkinson's disease patients. However, the relationship between copper, copper transporter 1 and α-synuclein pathology remains elusive. Here, we aim to decipher the molecular mechanisms of copper and copper transporter 1 underlying Parkinson's disease pathology. We employed yeast and mammalian cell models expressing human α-synuclein, where exogenous copper accelerated intracellular α-synuclein inclusions and silencing copper transporter 1 reduced α-synuclein aggregates in vitro, suggesting that copper transporter 1 might inhibit α-synuclein pathology. To study our hypothesis in vivo, we generated a new transgenic mouse model with copper transporter 1 conditional knocked-out specifically in dopaminergic neuron. Meanwhile, we unilaterally injected adeno-associated viral human-α-synuclein into the substantia nigra of these mice. Importantly, we found that copper transporter 1 deficiency significantly reduced S129-phosphorylation of α-synuclein, prevented dopaminergic neuronal loss, and alleviated motor dysfunction caused by α-synuclein overexpression in vivo. Overall, our data indicated that inhibition of copper transporter 1 alleviated α-synuclein mediated pathologies and provided a novel therapeutic strategy for Parkinson's disease and other synucleinopathies.
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| 7. |
- Huang, Ting Ting, et al.
(author)
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No symphony without bassoon and piccolo : Changes in synaptic active zone proteins in Huntington's disease
- 2020
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In: Acta Neuropathologica Communications. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 2051-5960. ; 8:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Prominent features of HD neuropathology are the intranuclear and cytoplasmic inclusions of huntingtin and striatal and cortical neuronal cell death. Recently, synaptic defects have been reported on HD-related studies, including impairment of neurotransmitter release and alterations of synaptic components. However, the definite characteristics of synapse dysfunction and the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. We studied the gene expression levels and patterns of a number of proteins forming the cytoskeletal matrix of the presynaptic active zones in HD transgenic mice (R6/1), in hippocampal neuronal cultures overexpressing mutant huntingtin and in postmortem brain tissues of HD patients. To investigate the interactions between huntingtin and active proteins, we performed confocal microscopic imaging and immunoprecipitation in mouse and HEK 293 cell line models. The mRNA and protein levels of Bassoon were reduced in mouse and cell culture models of HD and in brain tissues of patients with HD. Moreover, a striking re-distribution of a complex of proteins including Bassoon, Piccolo and Munc 13-1 from the cytoplasm and synapses into intranuclear huntingtin aggregates with loss of active zone proteins and dendritic spines. This re-localization was age-dependent and coincided with the formation of huntingtin aggregates. Using co-immunoprecipitation, we demonstrated that huntingtin interacts with Bassoon, and that this interaction is likely mediated by a third linking protein. Three structural proteins involved in neurotransmitter release in the presynaptic active zones of neurons are altered in expression and that the proteins are redistributed from their normal functional site into mutant huntingtin aggregates.
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| 8. |
- Tang, Ting-Ting, et al.
(author)
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Impaired thymic export and apoptosis contribute to regulatory T-cell defects in patients with chronic heart failure.
- 2011
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In: PLoS ONE. - : Public Library of Science (PLoS). - 1932-6203 .- 1932-6203. ; 6:9, s. e24272-
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Animal studies suggest that regulatory T (T(reg)) cells play a beneficial role in ventricular remodeling and our previous data have demonstrated defects of T(reg) cells in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). However, the mechanisms behind T(reg-)cell defects remained unknown. We here sought to elucidate the mechanism of T(reg-)cell defects in CHF patients.
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| 9. |
- Wei, Xiao-Ping, et al.
(author)
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Investigations on electronic, Fermi surface, Curie temperature and optical properties of Zr2CoAl
- 2017
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In: Journal of Solid State Chemistry. - : ACADEMIC PRESS INC ELSEVIER SCIENCE. - 0022-4596 .- 1095-726X. ; 247, s. 97-104
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Using full-potential local-orbital minimum-basis along with spin-polarized relativistic Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker methods, we study the electronic, Fermi surface, Curie temperature and optical properties of Zr2CoAl alloy. The alloy with Li2AgSb and Cu2MnAl structures are compared in terms of magnetic properties, and the electronic structures in two structures are also discussed. According to the calculated electronic states, it finds that the Zr2CoAl with Li2AgSb structure is half-metallic ferromagnet with an integral magnetic moment of 2.00 mu(beta), meanwhile we also notice the d-d and p-d hybridizations are responsible for the formation of minority-spin gap, furthermore, the fat-bands are applied to discuss the mixture between d and p electrons in the vicinity of the Fermi level. The Fermi surfaces related to the valence bands are constructed, and it is found that the spin-up valence bands 26, 27 and 28 across the Fermi energy dominate the nature of electrons. By mapping the system onto a Heisenberg Hamiltonian, we obtain the exchange coupling parameters, and observe that the Zr(A)-Co(C) and Zr(A)-Zr(B) interactions provide a major contribution for exchange interactions. Based on the calculated exchange coupling parameters, the Curie temperature is estimated to be 287.86 K at equilibrium, and also the dependence of Curie temperature on lattice constant related to the tunable Curie temperature in Zr2CoAl alloy is studied. Finally, we report the optical properties of Zr2CoAl alloy, and present the photon energy dependence of the absorption, the optical conductivity and the loss function.
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| 10. |
- Callaway, EM, et al.
(author)
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A multimodal cell census and atlas of the mammalian primary motor cortex
- 2021
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In: Nature. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1476-4687 .- 0028-0836. ; 598:7879, s. 86-102
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Here we report the generation of a multimodal cell census and atlas of the mammalian primary motor cortex as the initial product of the BRAIN Initiative Cell Census Network (BICCN). This was achieved by coordinated large-scale analyses of single-cell transcriptomes, chromatin accessibility, DNA methylomes, spatially resolved single-cell transcriptomes, morphological and electrophysiological properties and cellular resolution input–output mapping, integrated through cross-modal computational analysis. Our results advance the collective knowledge and understanding of brain cell-type organization1–5. First, our study reveals a unified molecular genetic landscape of cortical cell types that integrates their transcriptome, open chromatin and DNA methylation maps. Second, cross-species analysis achieves a consensus taxonomy of transcriptomic types and their hierarchical organization that is conserved from mouse to marmoset and human. Third, in situ single-cell transcriptomics provides a spatially resolved cell-type atlas of the motor cortex. Fourth, cross-modal analysis provides compelling evidence for the transcriptomic, epigenomic and gene regulatory basis of neuronal phenotypes such as their physiological and anatomical properties, demonstrating the biological validity and genomic underpinning of neuron types. We further present an extensive genetic toolset for targeting glutamatergic neuron types towards linking their molecular and developmental identity to their circuit function. Together, our results establish a unifying and mechanistic framework of neuronal cell-type organization that integrates multi-layered molecular genetic and spatial information with multi-faceted phenotypic properties.
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| 11. |
- Cho, Yoon Shin, et al.
(author)
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Meta-analysis of genome-wide association studies identifies eight new loci for type 2 diabetes in east Asians.
- 2012
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In: Nature Genetics. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1061-4036 .- 1546-1718. ; 44:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- We conducted a three-stage genetic study to identify susceptibility loci for type 2 diabetes (T2D) in east Asian populations. We followed our stage 1 meta-analysis of eight T2D genome-wide association studies (6,952 cases with T2D and 11,865 controls) with a stage 2 in silico replication analysis (5,843 cases and 4,574 controls) and a stage 3 de novo replication analysis (12,284 cases and 13,172 controls). The combined analysis identified eight new T2D loci reaching genome-wide significance, which mapped in or near GLIS3, PEPD, FITM2-R3HDML-HNF4A, KCNK16, MAEA, GCC1-PAX4, PSMD6 and ZFAND3. GLIS3, which is involved in pancreatic beta cell development and insulin gene expression, is known for its association with fasting glucose levels. The evidence of an association with T2D for PEPD and HNF4A has been shown in previous studies. KCNK16 may regulate glucose-dependent insulin secretion in the pancreas. These findings, derived from an east Asian population, provide new perspectives on the etiology of T2D.
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| 12. |
- Jia, Ting, et al.
(author)
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Determinants of Fibroblast Growth Factor-23 and Parathyroid Hormone Variability in Dialysis Patients
- 2013
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In: American Journal of Nephrology. - : Karger. - 0250-8095 .- 1421-9670. ; 37:5, s. 462-471
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background/Aims: Treatment strategies for abnormal mineral metabolism in chronic kidney disease are largely based on achieving target ranges of biomarkers that vary considerably over time, yet determinants of their variability are poorly defined. Methods: Observational study including 162 patients of three dialysis cohorts (peritoneal dialysis, n = 78; hemodialysis, n = 49; hemodiafiltration, n = 35). Clinical and biochemical determinants of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF23) variability were analyzed in the peritoneal dialysis cohort. All cohorts were used for comparison of PTH and FGF23 intra-subject variability (intra-class correlation), and their intra-subject variability in different modes of dialysis was explored. Results: High PTH variability was independently associated with lower 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration and factors of lipid and glucose metabolism, whereas high FGF23 variability was mainly associated with lower baseline serum phosphorous. These results were consistent in multivariate and sensitivity analyses. The intra-subject variability of FGF23 was lower than for PTH irrespective of dialysis mode. Conclusions: Baseline vitamin D status and serum phosphorous are independent determinants of the longitudinal variation in PTH and FGF23, respectively. The clinical utility of FGF23 measurement remains unknown, yet it appears favorable based on its greater temporal stability than PTH in dialysis patients.
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| 13. |
- Jia, Ting, et al.
(author)
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Kidney function, β-cell function and glucose tolerance in older men
- 2015
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In: Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. - : The Endocrine Society. - 0021-972X .- 1945-7197. ; 100:2, s. 587-593
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Context: Kidney dysfunction induces insulin resistance, but it is unknown if β cell function is affected.Objective: To investigate insulin release (β cell function) and glucose tolerance following a standardized oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) across kidney function strata.Setting and Design: Community-based cohort study from the Uppsala Longitudinal Study of Adult Men (ULSAM).Participants and Main Outcome Measure: Included were 1015 non-diabetic Swedish men aged 70-71 years. All participants underwent OGTT and euglycaemic hyperinsulinaemic clamp (HEGC) tests, allowing determination of insulin sensitivity, β cell function and glucose tolerance. Kidney function was estimated by cystatin C-algorithms. Mixed models were used to identify determinants of insulin secretion after the hyperglycemic load.Results: As many as 466 (46%) of participants presented moderate-advanced kidney disease. Insulin sensitivity (by HEGC) decreased across decreasing kidney function quartiles. After the OGTT challenge, however, β cell function indices (area under the curve for insulin release, the estimated first phase insulin release and the insulinogenic index) were incrementally higher. Neither the oral disposition index nor ths 2-hour post-load glucose tolerance differed across kidney function strata. Mixed models showed that dynamic insulin release during the OGTT was inversely associated to kidney function despite correction for each individual's insulin sensitivity or its risk factors.Conclusions: In older men, β cell function after a hyperglycemic load appropriately compensated the loss in insulin sensitivity that accompanies kidney dysfunction. As a result, the net balance between insulin sensitivity and β cell function was preserved.
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| 14. |
- Jia, Ting, et al.
(author)
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Malaria parasites and related haemosporidians cause mortality in cranes : A study on the parasites diversity, prevalence and distribution in Beijing Zoo
- 2018
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In: Malaria Journal. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1475-2875. ; 17:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Malaria parasites and related haemosporidian parasites are widespread and may cause severe diseases in birds. These pathogens should be considered in projects aiming breeding of birds for purposes of sustained ex situ conservation. Cranes are the 'flagship species' for health assessment of wetland ecosystems, and the majority of species are endangered. Malaria parasites and other haemosporidians have been reported in cranes, but the host-parasite relationships remain insufficiently understood. Morbidity of cranes due to malaria has been reported in Beijing Zoo. This study report prevalence, diversity and distribution of malaria parasites and related haemosporidians in cranes in Beijing Zoo and suggest simple measures to protect vulnerable individuals. Methods: In all, 123 cranes (62 adults and 61 juveniles) belonging to 10 species were examined using PCR-based testing and microscopic examination of blood samples collected in 2007-2014. All birds were maintained in open-air aviaries, except for 19 chicks that were raised in a greenhouse with the aim to protect them from bites of blood-sucking insects. Bayesian phylogenetic analysis was used to identify the closely related avian haemosporidian parasites. Results: Species of Plasmodium (5 lineages), Haemoproteus (1) and Leucocytozoon (2) were reported. Malaria parasites predominated (83% of all reported infections). The overall prevalence of haemosporidians in juveniles was approximately seven-fold higher than in adults, indicating high susceptibility of chicks and local transmission. Juvenile and adult birds hosted different lineages of Plasmodium, indicating that chicks got infection from non-parent birds. Plasmodium relictum (pSGS1) was the most prevalent malaria parasite. Mortality was not reported in adults, but 53% of infected chicks died, with reports of co-infection with Plasmodium and Leucocytozoon species. All chicks maintained in the greenhouse were non-infected and survived. Species of Leucocytozoon were undetectable by commonly used PCR protocol, but readily visible in blood films. Conclusion: Crane chicks often die due to malaria and Leucocytozoon infections, which they likely gain from wild free-living birds in Beijing Zoo. Molecular diagnostics of crane Leucocytozoon parasites needs improvement. Because the reported infections are mainly chick diseases, the authors recommend maintaining of juvenile birds in vector-free facilities until the age of approximately 6 months before they are placed in open-air aviaries.
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| 15. |
- Jia, Ting
(author)
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Studies on bone and mineral disorders in CKD : determinants and survival implications
- 2013
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Disruptions in mineral metabolism occur already at an early stage of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and may eventually lead to a complex of CKD - mineral and bone disorders (CKD-MBD) characterized by alterations of the mass, turnover rate, mineralization and strength of bones, and high risk of vascular calcification, fractures and other complications resulting in worse survival. The aim of this thesis was to increase the understanding of some aspects of CKD-MBD with special emphasis on clinical and laboratory determinants and implications for clinical outcome. In Study 1, we defined and tested a novel non-surgical, adjustable model of tubulointerstitial nephropathy in mice by adding adenine to a casein-based diet and showed that this model could induce and maintain a uremic phenotype with decline of renal function and initiation of alterations linked to CKD-MBD. In Study 2, we investigated the impact of classical risk factors for osteoporosis such as age, body composition, and nutritional status in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) subjects, and how these factors influence the relationship between bone mineral density (BMD) and mortality in patients with ESRD. We found that low BMD is associated with low total fat mass, poor nutritional status and increased mortality risk in ESRD patients. In Study 3, we studied determinants of the variability of two bone metabolic markers, fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF23) and intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) in ESRD patients treated by peritoneal dialysis, hemodialysis or online hemodiafiltration. We found that baseline vitamin D status and serum phosphorous were independent determinants of the longitudinal variation in PTH and FGF23, respectively, and that the intra-subject variability of FGF23 was lower than the variability of PTH irrespective of dialysis mode. In Study 4, we analyzed baseline serum insulin-like growth factor 1(IGF-1) concentration and the longitudinal changes of IGF-1 over 1-year in CKD stage 5 patients starting on dialysis in relation to bone and mineral metabolism parameters including BMD, nutritional status, and mortality. We found that IGF-1 associates with markers of mineral and bone metabolism and that IGF-1 is a strong independent predictor of mortality risk in CKD stage 5 patients.
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| 16. |
- Jia, Ting, et al.
(author)
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Validation of insulin sensitivity surrogate indices and prediction of clinical outcomes in individuals with and without impaired renal function
- 2014
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In: Kidney International. - : Elsevier BV. - 0085-2538 .- 1523-1755. ; 86:2, s. 383-391
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- As chronic kidney disease (CKD) progresses with abnormalities in glucose and insulin metabolism, commonly used insulin sensitivity indices (151s) may not be applicable in individuals with CKD. Here we sought to validate surrogate ISls against the glucose disposal rate by the gold-standard hyperinsulinemic euglycemic glucose clamp (HEGC) technique in 1074 elderly men of similar age (70 years) of whom 495 had and 579 did not have CKD (estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) under 60 ml/min per 1.73 m2 (median eGFR of 46 ml/min per 1.73 m2)). All ISls provided satisfactory (weighted K over 0.6) estimates of the glucose disposal rate in patients with CKD. ISls derived from oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTTs) agreed better with HEGC than those from fasting samples (higher predictive accuracy). Regardless of CKD strata, all ISls allowed satisfactory clinical discrimination between the presence and absence of insulin resistance (glucose disposal rate under 4 mg/kg/min). We also assessed the ability of both HEGC and ISls to predict all-cause and cardiovascular mortality during a 10-year follow-up. Neither HEGC nor ISIs independently predicted mortality. Adjustment for renal function did not materially change these associations. Thus, ISls can be applied in individuals with moderately impaired renal function for diagnostic purposes. For research matters, OGTT-derived ISls may be preferred. Our data do not support the hypothesis of kidney function mediating insulin sensitivity (I5)-associated outcomes nor a role for IS as a predictor of mortality
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| 17. |
- Lin, Wei Cheng, et al.
(author)
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Effect of energy bandgap and sacrificial agents of cyclopentadithiophene-based polymers for enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
- 2021
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In: Applied Catalysis B: Environmental. - : Elsevier BV. - 0926-3373. ; 298
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- A library of donor-acceptor system consisting of cyclopentadithiophene-based polymer photocatalysts have been designed and synthesized. Among all photocatalysts, the active PCPDTBSO achieved hydrogen evolution rates of 24.6 mmol h–1 g–1 with apparent quantum yields of 8.7 % at 500 nm. More importantly, combined the results of photocatalytic efficiency, apparent quantum yield, the time-resolved fluorescence decay spectra, the steady-state photoluminescence spectra, and the transient absorption spectroscopy, and the oxidation potentials of sacrificial donors and protons reduction potentials in different pH values, we confirmed the concept that ascorbic acid is a suitable sacrificial donor for narrow bandgap polymers and triethylamine is a suitable sacrificial donor for wide bandgap polymers owing to the existence of the optimal thermodynamic driving force. We believed this study would be advantageous for the selection of photocatalysts and sacrificial donors for hydrogen production.
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| 18. |
- Lin, Wei Ju, et al.
(author)
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Deterministic Loading of Microwaves onto an Artificial Atom Using a Time-Reversed Waveform
- 2022
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In: Nano Letters. - : American Chemical Society (ACS). - 1530-6992 .- 1530-6984. ; 22:20, s. 8137-8142
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Loading quantum information deterministically onto a quantum node is an important step toward a quantum network. Here, we demonstrate that coherent-state microwave photons with an optimal temporal waveform can be efficiently loaded onto a single superconducting artificial atom in a semi-infinite one-dimensional (1D) transmission-line waveguide. Using a weak coherent state (the number of photons (N) contained in the pulse ≪1) with an exponentially rising waveform, whose time constant matches the decoherence time of the artificial atom, we demonstrate a loading efficiency of 94.2% ± 0.7% from 1D semifree space to the artificial atom. The high loading efficiency is due to time-reversal symmetry: the overlap between the incoming wave and the time-reversed emitted wave is up to 97.1% ± 0.4%. Our results open up promising applications in realizing quantum networks based on waveguide quantum electrodynamics.
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| 19. |
- Luo, Yifei, et al.
(author)
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Technology Roadmap for Flexible Sensors
- 2023
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In: ACS Nano. - : American Chemical Society. - 1936-0851 .- 1936-086X. ; 17:6, s. 5211-5295
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Humans rely increasingly on sensors to address grand challenges and to improve quality of life in the era of digitalization and big data. For ubiquitous sensing, flexible sensors are developed to overcome the limitations of conventional rigid counterparts. Despite rapid advancement in bench-side research over the last decade, the market adoption of flexible sensors remains limited. To ease and to expedite their deployment, here, we identify bottlenecks hindering the maturation of flexible sensors and propose promising solutions. We first analyze challenges in achieving satisfactory sensing performance for real-world applications and then summarize issues in compatible sensor-biology interfaces, followed by brief discussions on powering and connecting sensor networks. Issues en route to commercialization and for sustainable growth of the sector are also analyzed, highlighting environmental concerns and emphasizing nontechnical issues such as business, regulatory, and ethical considerations. Additionally, we look at future intelligent flexible sensors. In proposing a comprehensive roadmap, we hope to steer research efforts towards common goals and to guide coordinated development strategies from disparate communities. Through such collaborative efforts, scientific breakthroughs can be made sooner and capitalized for the betterment of humanity.
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| 20. |
- Pang, Xiaodan, Dr., et al.
(author)
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Bridging the Terahertz Gap: Photonics-assisted Free-Space Communications from the Submillimeter-Wave to the Mid-Infrared
- 2022
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In: Journal of Lightwave Technology. - : Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). - 0733-8724 .- 1558-2213. ; , s. 1-1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Since about one and half centuries ago, at the dawn of modern communications, the radio and the optics have been two separate electromagnetic spectrum regions to carry data. Differentiated by their generation/detection methods and propagation properties, the two paths have evolved almost independently until today. The optical technologies dominate the long-distance and high-speed terrestrial wireline communications through fiber-optic telecom systems, whereas the radio technologies have mainly dominated the short- to medium-range wireless scenarios. Now, these two separate counterparts are both facing a sign of saturation in their respective roadmap horizons, particularly in the segment of free-space communications. The optical technologies are extending into the mid-wave and long-wave infrared (MWIR and LWIR) regimes to achieve better propagation performance through the dynamic atmospheric channels. Radio technologies strive for higher frequencies like the millimeter-wave (MMW) and sub-terahertz (sub-THz) to gain broader bandwidth. The boundary between the two is becoming blurred and intercrossed. During the past few years, we witnessed technological breakthroughs in free-space transmission supporting very high data rates, many achieved with the assistance of photonics. This paper focuses on such photonics-assisted free-space communication technologies in both the lower and upper sides of the THz gap and provides a detailed review of recent research and development activities on some of the key enabling technologies. Our recent experimental demonstrations of high-speed free-space transmissions in both frequency regions are also presented as examples to show the system requirements for device characteristics and digital signal processing (DSP) performance.
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| 21. |
- Pang, Xiaodan, Dr., et al.
(author)
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Free-Space Transmissions in the Upper- and Lower-THz Bands Assisted with Photonics
- 2021
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In: 2021 European Conference on Optical Communication (ECOC). - : Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). ; , s. 1-4
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Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- We report our recent studies in photonics-assisted free-space transmissions in both the lower (0.3-0.5 THz) and upper- (~64.5 THz) terahertz bands. We adopt the hybrid electro-optical approach for the lower-THz signal transmission, whereas a directly modulated quantum cascade laser is used for the upper-THz band.
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| 22. |
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| 23. |
- Shen, Liyan, et al.
(author)
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Clinical Uncertainty Influences Antibiotic Prescribing for Upper Respiratory Tract Infections : A Qualitative Study of Township Hospital Physicians and Village Doctors in Rural Shandong Province, China
- 2023
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In: Antibiotics. - : MDPI. - 2079-6382. ; 12:6
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: This study aimed to explore how clinical uncertainty influences antibiotic prescribing practices among township hospital physicians and village doctors in rural Shandong Province, China.Methods: Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with 30 township hospital physicians and 6 village doctors from rural Shandong Province, China. A multi-stage random sampling method was used to identify respondents. Conceptual content analysis together with Colaizzi's method were used to generate qualitative codes and identify themes.Results: Three final thematic categories emerged during the data analysis: (1) Incidence and treatment of Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTIs) in township hospitals and village clinics; (2) Antibiotic prescribing practices based on the clinical experience of clinicians; (3) Influence of clinical uncertainty on antibiotic prescribing. Respondents from both township hospitals and village clinics reported that URTIs were the most common reason for antibiotic prescriptions at their facilities and that clinical uncertainty appears to be an important driver for the overuse of antibiotics for URTIs. Clinical uncertainty was primarily due to: (1) Diagnostic uncertainty (establishing a relevant diagnosis is hindered by limited diagnostic resources and capacities, as well as limited willingness of patients to pay for investigations), and (2) Insufficient prognostic evidence. As a consequence of the clinical uncertainty caused by both diagnostic and prognostic uncertainty, respondents stated that antibiotics are frequently prescribed for URTIs to prevent both prolonged courses or recurrence of the disease, as well as clinical worsening, hospital admission, or complications.Conclusion: Our study suggests that clinical uncertainty is a key driver for the overuse and misuse of prescribing antibiotics for URTIs in both rural township hospitals and village clinics in Shandong province, China, and that interventions to reduce clinical uncertainty may help minimize the unnecessary use of antibiotics in these settings. Interventions that use clinical rules to identify patients at low risk of complications or hospitalization may be more feasible in the near-future than laboratory-based interventions aimed at reducing diagnostic uncertainty.
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| 24. |
- Thern, Emelie, et al.
(author)
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No effects of increased alcohol availability during adolescence on alcohol-related morbidity and mortality during four decades : a natural experiment
- 2017
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In: Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. - : BMJ. - 0143-005X .- 1470-2738. ; 71:11, s. 1072-1077
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: A strict high legal age limit for alcohol purchases decreases adolescents' access to alcohol, but little is known about long-term health effects. The aim was to estimate the effect of increased alcohol availability during adolescence on alcohol-related morbidity and mortality.METHODS: A nationwide register-based study using data from a natural experiment setting. In two regions of Sweden, strong beer (4.5%-5.6% alcohol by volume) became temporarily available for purchase in grocery stores for individuals 16 years or older (instead of 21) in 1967/1968. The intervention group was defined as all individuals living in the intervention area when they were 14-20 years old (n=72 110). The remaining Swedish counties excluding bordering counties, without the policy change, were used as the control group (n=456 224). The outcomes of alcohol-related morbidity and mortality were collected from the Hospital Discharge Register and Cause of Death Register, in which average follow-up times were 38 years and 41 years, respectively. HRs with 95% CIs were obtained by Cox regression analysis.RESULTS: In the fully adjusted model, no clear evidence of an association between increased alcohol availability during adolescence and alcohol-related morbidity (HR: 0.99, 95% CI 0.96 to 1.02) or mortality (HR: 1.02, 95% CI 0.95 to 1.10) was found.CONCLUSION: The initial elevated risk of alcohol-related morbidity and mortality later in life among adolescents exposed to increased access to strong beer in Sweden vanished when a regional measure population density of locality was included in the model, which is important to consider in future research.
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| 25. |
- Tierney, W., et al.
(author)
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A creative destruction approach to replication : Implicit work and sex morality across cultures
- 2021
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In: Journal of Experimental Social Psychology. - : Elsevier BV. - 0022-1031 .- 1096-0465. ; 93
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- How can we maximize what is learned from a replication study? In the creative destruction approach to replication, the original hypothesis is compared not only to the null hypothesis, but also to predictions derived from multiple alternative theoretical accounts of the phenomenon. To this end, new populations and measures are included in the design in addition to the original ones, to help determine which theory best accounts for the results across multiple key outcomes and contexts. The present pre-registered empirical project compared the Implicit Puritanism account of intuitive work and sex morality to theories positing regional, religious, and social class differences; explicit rather than implicit cultural differences in values; self-expression vs. survival values as a key cultural fault line; the general moralization of work; and false positive effects. Contradicting Implicit Puritanism's core theoretical claim of a distinct American work morality, a number of targeted findings replicated across multiple comparison cultures, whereas several failed to replicate in all samples and were identified as likely false positives. No support emerged for theories predicting regional variability and specific individual-differences moderators (religious affiliation, religiosity, and education level). Overall, the results provide evidence that work is intuitively moralized across cultures.
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| 26. |
- Vazin, Tandis, et al.
(author)
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Assessment of Stromal-Derived Inducing Activity in the Generation of Dopaminergic Neurons from Human Embryonic Stem Cells
- 2008
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In: Stem Cells. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 1066-5099 .- 1549-4918. ; 26:6, s. 1517-1525
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Producing dopaminergic (DA) neurons is a major goal of human embryonic stem cell (hESC) research. DA neurons can be differentiated from hESC by coculture with the mouse PA6 stromal cell line; this differentiation-inducing effect is termed stromal-derived inducing activity (SDIA). The molecular and biochemical nature of SDIA is, however, unknown. Various studies have suggested that SDIA involves either a fixation-resistant component located on the PA6 cell surface or factors secreted into the medium by PA6 cells. To address this question, hESC were cocultured with PA6 cells for 12 days and then further differentiated with sonic hedgehog homolog, fibroblast growth factor-8, and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor. After 18 days, 34% of cells were tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)+. When PA6 cells were fixed or irradiated, the number of TH+ cells was decreased by threefold, whereas mitomycin-c treatment of feeder cells decreased the number of TH+ cells by 32%. The neural-inducing effect of PA6 cells, as monitored by β-III-tubulin expression, was minimally affected by mitomycin-c treatment or fixation but was decreased 50% by irradiation. Medium conditioned by PA6 cells was ineffective in differentiating TH+ cells when used alone. Conditioned medium combined with heparin and/or fixed PA6 cells produced TH+ cell differentiation, although less effectively than PA6 cell coculture. Thus, PA6 cell surface activity is required for neural differentiation of hESC, but secreted factors are required for the specific DA neuron-inducing effect.
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| 27. |
- Vazin, Tandis, et al.
(author)
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Dopaminergic neurons derived from BG01V2 : a variant of human embryonic stem cell line BG01
- 2008
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In: Restorative Neurology and Neuroscience. - 0922-6028 .- 1878-3627. ; 26:6, s. 447-458
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background and Purpose: Human embryonic stem cells (hESC) areconsidered a renewable source of dopamine producing neurons, and are of particularinterest for their potential clinical use in Parkinson’s disease. In this study, wecharacterized human dopaminergic neurons generated by stromal-derived inducingactivity (SDIA) from BG01V2, a strain of human embryonic stem cell line, BG01,characterized by a chromosome 17 trisomy. Similar chromosomal changes have beenrepeatedly observed in hESC cultures in different laboratories, indicating the importanceof chromosome 17 for growth and adaptation of hESC to culture. Methods: Weinvestigated in vitro proliferation of differentiating cells using a BrDU incorporationassay, and monitored the cell population in long term cultures. Despite the cytogeneticabnormality, TH+ neurons were postmitotic at all stages of differentiation. After 30 daysof differentiation, cell division ceased in 91% of the overall population of cells in theculture, indicating intact cell cycle regulation. Results: Expression of midbrain specificmarker genes (Otx2, Pax5, Msx-1) showed differentiation of hESC-derived neuralprogenitor cells into midbrain specific dopamine neurons. These neurons expressed thedopamine transporter (DAT), and displayed functional DAT activity and electricalexcitability. Conclusions: TH+ cells derived from the BG01V2 hESC line using SDIAare postmitotic and have functional characteristics of normal dopaminergic neurons.
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| 28. |
- Wu, Ping-Hsun, et al.
(author)
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β-blocker dialyzability and the risk of mortality and cardiovascular events in patients undergoing hemodialysis
- 2020
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In: Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 0931-0509 .- 1460-2385. ; 35:11, s. 1959-1965
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Backgroundβ-blocker (BB) dialyzability has been proposed to limit their efficacy among hemodialysis (HD) patients. We attempted to confirm this hypothesis by comparing health outcomes associated with the initiation of dialyzable or nondialyzable BBs in a nationwide cohort of HD patients.MethodsWe created a prospective cohort study of 15 699 HD patients who initiated dialyzable BBs (atenolol, acebutolol, metoprolol and bisoprolol) and 20 904 hemodialysis patients who initiated nondialyzable BBs (betaxolol, carvedilol and propranolol) between 2004 and 2011 in Taiwan healthcare. We compared the risk of all-cause mortality and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs, a composite of the acute coronary syndrome, ischemic stroke and heart failure) between users of dialyzable versus nondialyzable BBs during a 2-year follow-up.ResultsNew users of dialyzable BBs were younger, more often men, with diabetes mellitus, hypertension and hyperlipidemia compared with users of nondialyzable BBs. Compared with nondialyzable BBs, initiation of dialyzable BBs was associated with lower all-cause mortality {hazard ratio [HR] 0.82 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.75–0.88]} and lower risk of MACEs [HR 0.89 (95% CI 0.84–0.93)]. Results were confirmed in subgroup analyses, censoring at BB discontinuation or switch, after 1:1 propensity score matching, reclassifying bisoprolol or excluding bisoprolol/carvedilol users.ConclusionsThis study does not offer support for the hypothesis that the dialyzability of BBs reduces their efficacy in HD patients.
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| 29. |
- Xu, Hong, et al.
(author)
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Dietary acid load, insulin sensitivity and risk of type 2 diabetes in community-dwelling older men
- 2014
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In: Diabetologia. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0012-186X .- 1432-0428. ; 57:8, s. 1561-1568
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Aims/hypothesis We tested the hypothesis that dietary acid load may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, and studied the association between acid load and insulin sensitivity as a possible mechanism involved. Methods An observational survey with prospective follow-up including 911 non-diabetic Swedish men aged 70-71 years was carried out. The gold standard euglycaemic-hyperinsulinaemic clamp technique and the OGTT were used to determine insulin sensitivity and beta cell function, respectively. Diabetes incidence was assessed during 18 years of follow-up. Renal function was estimated from serum cystatin C concentrations. Dietary acid load was calculated as potential renal acid load (PRAL) and net endogenous acid production (NEAP) algorithms from 7 day food records. Adequate dietary reporters were identified by Goldberg cut-offs. Results PRAL and NEAP were not associated with insulin sensitivity or beta cell function. Underlying kidney function or consideration of dietary adequate reporters did not modify these null findings. During follow-up, 115 new cases of diabetes were validated. Neither PRAL nor NEAP was associated with diabetes incidence. Conclusios/interpretation Our results do not support the hypothesis that dietary acid load influences insulin sensitivity, beta cell function or diabetes risk. Interventional studies modifying acid-base dietary intake are needed to further elucidate a possible role of acid load in the development of type 2 diabetes.
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| 30. |
- Zhang, Li-Fang, et al.
(author)
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Proteomic analysis of plasma membranes of cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. Strain PCC 6803 in response to high pH stress.
- 2009
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In: Journal of Proteome Research. - Washington, D.C. : American chemical society. - 1535-3893 .- 1535-3907. ; 8:6, s. 2892-902
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Cyanobacteria are unique prokaryotes possessing plasma-, outer- and thylakoid membranes. The plasma membrane of a cyanobacterial cell serves as a crucial barrier against its environment and is essential for biogenesis of cyanobacterial photosystems. Previously, we have identified 79 different proteins in the plasma membrane of Synechocystis sp. Strain PCC 6803 based on 2D- and 1D- gels and MALDI-TOF MS. In this work, we have performed a proteomic study screening for high-pH-stress proteins in Synechocystis. 2-D gel profiles of plasma membranes isolated from both control and high pH-treated cells were constructed and compared quantitatively based on different protein staining methods including DIGE analysis. A total of 55 differentially expressed protein spots were identified using MALDI-TOF MS and MALDI-TOF/TOF MS, corresponding to 39 gene products. Twenty-five proteins were enhanced/induced and 14 reduced by high pH. One-third of the enhanced/induced proteins were transport and binding proteins of ABC transporters including 3 phosphate transport proteins. Other proteins include MinD involved in cell division, Cya2 in signaling and proteins involved in photosynthesis and respiration. Furthermore, among these proteins regulated by high pH, eight were found to be hypothetical proteins. Functional significance of the high-pH-stress proteins is discussed integrating current knowledge on cyanobacterial cell physiology.
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