bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal dynamics of eye‐tracking and EEG during reading and relevance decisions
Authors: Gwizdka Jacek , Hosseini Rahilsadat , Cole Michael , Wang Shouyi
Published: August 2017

Assessment of text relevance is an important aspect of human–information interaction. For many search sessions it is essential to achieving the task goal. This work investigates text relevance decision dynamics in a question‐answering task by direct measurement of eye movement using eye‐tracking and brain activity using electroencephalography EEG. The EEG measurements are correlated with the user's goal‐directed attention allocation revealed by their eye movements. In a within‐subject lab experiment (N = 24), participants read short news stories of varied relevance. Eye movement and EEG features were calculated in three epochs of reading each news story (early, middle, final) and for periods where relevant words were read. Perceived relevance classification models were learned for each epoch. The results show reading epochs where relevant words were processed could be distinguished from other epochs. The classification models show increasing divergence in processing relevant vs. irrelevant documents after the initial epoch. This suggests differences in cognitive processes used to assess texts of varied relevance levels and provides evidence for the potential to detect these differences in information search sessions using eye tracking and EEG.
The Wyss institute: A new model for medical technology innovation and translation across the academic‐industrial interface
Authors: Tolikas Mary , Antoniou Ayis , Ingber Donald E.
Published: August 2017

The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University was formed based on the recognition that breakthrough discoveries cannot change the world if they never leave the laboratory. The Institute's mission is to discover the biological principles that Nature uses to build living things, and to harness these insights to create biologically inspired engineering innovations to advance human health and create a more sustainable world. Since its launch in 2009, the Institute has developed a new model for innovation, collaboration, and technology translation within academia, breaking “silos” to enable collaborations that cross institutional and disciplinary barriers. Institute faculty and staff engage in high‐risk research that leads to transformative breakthroughs. The biological principles uncovered are harnessed to develop new engineering solutions for medicine and healthcare, as well as nonmedical areas, such as energy, architecture, robotics, and manufacturing. These technologies are translated into commercial products and therapies through collaborations with clinical investigators, corporate alliances, and the formation of new start‐ups that are driven by a unique internal business development team including entrepreneurs‐in‐residence with domain‐specific expertise. Here, we describe this novel organizational model that the Institute has developed to change the paradigm of how fundamental discovery, medical technology innovation, and commercial translation are carried out at the academic‐industrial interface.
Influence of the Support of Bimetallic Platinum Tungstate Catalysts on 1,3‐Propanediol Formation from Glycerol
Authors: García‐Fernández Sara , Gandarias Inaki , Tejido‐Núñez Yaiza , Requies Jesús , Arias Pedro Luis
Published: August 2017

Three aluminium oxide materials and a HZSM‐5 zeolite were used as supports of bimetallic Pt‐WOx catalysts to establish structure–activity relationships in the glycerol hydrogenolysis reaction. The surface W density and the intimate contact between Pt and WOx were key parameters. Surface W density controls the formation of polytungstates, the only species able to produce the weak Brønsted acidity that is required to produce 1,3‐propanediol selectively. The comparison between the HZSM‐5 and the Al2O3 supports demonstrated that an increment of the medium Brønsted acidity is detrimental for the selective 1,3‐propanediol formation as it promotes reactions that yield 1‐propanol and propane. An increase of the dispersion of Pt on the Pt/WOx/Al2O3 catalysts led to higher glycerol conversions but also promoted the hydrogenolysis routes that lead to 1,2‐ and 1,3‐propanediol similarly. On the contrary, an increase of the Pt metal content favoured the hydrogenolysis route that leads to 1,3‐propanediol significantly. A more intimate contact between Pt and WOx promoted the hydrogenation of the intermediate carbocation, formed and stabilised on a polytungstate active site, into 1,3‐propanediol.
Effects of Strong CYP3A Inhibition and Induction on the Pharmacokinetics of Ixazomib, an Oral Proteasome Inhibitor: Results of Drug‐Drug Interaction Studies in Patients With Advanced Solid Tumors or Lymphoma and a Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Analysis
Authors: Gupta Neeraj , Hanley Michael J. , Venkatakrishnan Karthik , Bessudo Alberto , Rasco Drew W. , Sharma Sunil , O'Neil Bert H. , Wang Bingxia , Liu Guohui , Ke Alice , Patel Chirag , Rowland Yeo Karen , Xia Cindy , Zhang Xiaoquan , Esseltine Dixie‐Lee , Nemunaitis John
Published: August 2017

At clinically relevant ixazomib concentrations, in vitro studies demonstrated that no specific cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme predominantly contributes to ixazomib metabolism. However, at higher than clinical concentrations, ixazomib was metabolized by multiple CYP isoforms, with the estimated relative contribution being highest for CYP3A at 42%. This multiarm phase 1 study (Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT01454076) investigated the effect of the strong CYP3A inhibitors ketoconazole and clarithromycin and the strong CYP3A inducer rifampin on the pharmacokinetics of ixazomib. Eighty‐eight patients were enrolled across the 3 drug‐drug interaction studies; the ixazomib toxicity profile was consistent with previous studies. Ketoconazole and clarithromycin had no clinically meaningful effects on the pharmacokinetics of ixazomib. The geometric least‐squares mean area under the plasma concentration‐time curve from 0 to 264 hours postdose ratio (90%CI) with vs without ketoconazole coadministration was 1.09 (0.91‐1.31) and was 1.11 (0.86‐1.43) with vs without clarithromycin coadministration. Reduced plasma exposures of ixazomib were observed following coadministration with rifampin. Ixazomib area under the plasma concentration‐time curve from time 0 to the time of the last quantifiable concentration was reduced by 74% (geometric least‐squares mean ratio of 0.26 [90%CI 0.18‐0.37]), and maximum observed plasma concentration was reduced by 54% (geometric least‐squares mean ratio of 0.46 [90%CI 0.29‐0.73]) in the presence of rifampin. The clinical drug‐drug interaction study results were reconciled well by a physiologically based pharmacokinetic model that incorporated a minor contribution of CYP3A to overall ixazomib clearance and quantitatively considered the strength of induction of CYP3A and intestinal P‐glycoprotein by rifampin. On the basis of these study results, the ixazomib prescribing information recommends that patients should avoid concomitant administration of strong CYP3A inducers with ixazomib.
Morphology visualization of irregular shape bacteria by electron holography and tomography
Authors: Ortega Eduardo , Cantu‐Valle Jesús , Plascencia‐Villa Germán , Vergara Sandra , Mendoza‐Santoyo Fernando , Londono‐Calderon Alejandra , Santiago Ulises , Ponce Arturo
Published: August 2017

In the current work, irregular morphology of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria has been visualized by phase retrieval employing off‐axis electron holography (EH) and 3D reconstruction electron tomography using high‐angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF‐STEM). Bacteria interacting with gold nanoparticles (AuNP) acquired a shrunken or irregular shape due to air dehydration processing. STEM imaging shows the attachment of AuNP on the surface of cells and suggests an irregular 3D morphology of the specimen. The phase reconstruction demonstrates that off‐axis electron holography can reveal with a single hologram the morphology of the specimen and the distribution of the functionalized AuNPs. In addition, EH reduces significantly the acquisition time and the cumulative radiation damage (in three orders of magnitude) over biological samples in comparison with multiple tilted electron expositions intrinsic to electron tomography, as well as the processing time and the reconstruction artifacts that may arise during tomogram reconstruction.
Design tradeoffs in long‐term research for stream salamanders
Authors: Brand Adrianne B. , Grant Evan H. Campbell
Published: August 2017

Long‐term research programs can benefit from early and periodic evaluation of their ability to meet stated objectives. In particular, consideration of the spatial allocation of effort is key. We sampled 4 species of stream salamanders intensively for 2 years (2010–2011) in the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, Maryland, USA to evaluate alternative distributions of sampling locations within stream networks, and then evaluated via simulation the ability of multiple survey designs to detect declines in occupancy and to estimate dynamic parameters (colonization, extinction) over 5 years for 2 species. We expected that fine‐scale microhabitat variables (e.g., cobble, detritus) would be the strongest determinants of occupancy for each of the 4 species; however, we found greater support for all species for models including variables describing position within the stream network, stream size, or stream microhabitat. A monitoring design focused on headwater sections had greater power to detect changes in occupancy and the dynamic parameters in each of 3 scenarios for the dusky salamander (Desmognathus fuscus) and red salamander (Pseudotriton ruber). Results for transect length were more variable, but across all species and scenarios, 25‐m transects are most suitable as a balance between maximizing detection probability and describing colonization and extinction. These results inform sampling design and provide a general framework for setting appropriate goals, effort, and duration in the initial planning stages of research programs on stream salamanders in the eastern United States. Published 2017. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Potential Biological Effects of (‐)‐Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate on the Treatment of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Chen Cheng , Liu Qian , Liu Lin , Hu Yi‐yang , Feng Qin
Published: August 2017

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major health issue throughout the world. However, no validated treatments for NAFLD are currently available. In‐depth studies have demonstrated the efficacy of (‐)‐epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG), a main bioactive chemical extracted from green tea, in treating NAFLD. EGCG exhibits multi‐pronged preventive and therapeutic activities, including promoting lipid and glucose metabolism, anti‐lipid peroxidation and anti‐inflammation activities, anti‐fibrosis, and anti‐NAFLD related tumor, thus contributing to the mitigation of NAFLD occurrence and progression. The objectives of this paper are to review and discuss the currently known targets, signaling pathways and roles of EGCG that interfere with NAFLD pathogenesis, then providing additional experimental evidence and the foundation for the further studies and clinical applications of EGCG in the prevention and treatment of NAFLD.
Technology‐specific yield analysis of various photovoltaic module technologies under specific real weather conditions
Authors: Bogenrieder J. , Hüttner M. , Luchscheider P. , Hauch J. , Camus C. , Brabec C.J.
Published: August 2017

In the presented paper, we introduce an approach to rate the performance of modules under specific real weather conditions, since solar modules are rated according to standard test conditions which do not give evidence of the performance under real outdoor conditions. Therefore, we categorize the daily weather at a photovoltaic test site into 7 different climatic‐day classifications and multiple cloud scenarios. Two different approaches to evaluate the cloud conditions were investigated. Furthermore, we use the developed approach to rate the performance of 8 different commercially available photovoltaic modules that have been installed and measured in Germany. The evaluation shows that module properties (eg, temperature coefficient, spectral response, and mechanical construction) have a major influence on the performance of photovoltaic modules under different weather conditions.
Bioassay‐guided isolation of potent aphicidal Erythrina alkaloids against Aphis gossypii from the seed of Erythrina crista‐galli L
Authors: Wang Delong , Xie Na , Yi Shandong , Liu Chuanyuan , Jiang Hui , Ma Zhiqing , Feng Juntao , Yan He , Zhang Xing
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

The cotton aphid (Aphis gossypii Glover) is one of the most invasive pests of cotton. Many botanical phytochemicals have a long history as a source of insecticides, and as templates for new insecticides. This study was undertaken to isolate aphicidal compounds from the seeds of Erythrina crista‐galli L. using the bioassay‐guided isolation method.

RESULTS

Three novel and 11 known Erythrina alkaloids were isolated. Erysodine (9), erysovine (10), erysotrine (8) and erythraline (11) showed moderate to excellent aphicidal activity with LD50 values of 7.48, 6.68, 5.13 and 4.67 ng aphid–1, respectively. The Potter spray tower bioassay gave corresponding LC50 values of 186.81, 165.35, 163.74 and 112.78 µg ml–1. A unique substructure, which presents an sp3 methylene at C‐8, a non‐oxygenated site at N‐9 and a conjugated dienes group (Δ1,2 and Δ6,7), plays a crucial role in the aphicidal activity. Application of erythraline (11) led to different increases in the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione S‐transferase.

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrated that the Erythrina alkaloids erysodine (9), erysovine (10), erysotrine (8) and erythraline (11) have potential use as botanical aphicides for commercial application, or as templates for the development of new insecticides. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Impact of exogenous strains on in vitro fermentation and anti‐colon cancer activities of maize resistant starch and xylo‐oligosaccharides
Authors: Yin Dan‐Ting , Zhao Xin‐Huai
Published: August 2017

The aim of this study was to assess the potential impact of 10 exogenous strains on acid production of maize resistant starch (RS) and xylo‐oligosaccharides (XOS) during in vitro fermentation and on anti‐colon cancer activities of fermentation products. Maize RS and XOS were fermented in vitro by the fecal extract from healthy adults in the absence and presence of one exogenous strain culture. Fermentation products were measured for their acetate, propionate, butyrate, and lactate contents, and growth inhibition on human colon carcinoma (HCT‐116) cells. These strains in general conferred fermentation products with increased acetate, propionate, and butyrate contents, enhanced lactate conversion, and different growth inhibition on HCT‐116 cells. Correlation analysis results demonstrated that butyrate and lactate contents of fermentation products made respective positive and negative contribution to the measured growth inhibition (p < 0.05); however, acetate and propionate contents made an insignificant contribution to the measured growth inhibition (p > 0.05). These results were mostly consistent with those from confirmation trials using standard acid solutions for the cells. It is highlighted that these strains had beneficial intervention in colonic fermentation of maize RS and XOS and anti‐cancer activities of fermentation products, rendering lower lactate and higher butyrate contents and especially higher anti‐colon cancer activities.
Incorporating human dimensions objectives into waterfowl habitat planning and delivery
Authors: Devers Patrick K. , Roberts Anthony J. , Knoche Scott , Padding Paul I. , Raftovich Robert
Published: August 2017

The 2012 revision of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP) explicitly recognized the need to increase recruitment and retention of waterfowl hunters, birdwatchers, and other conservationists to maintain support for wetland conservation. The incorporation of human dimensions objectives within the NAWMP has compelled waterfowl and wetland managers to consider whether and to what extent landscape characteristics such as public land access; the type, amount, and location of wetlands; and site infrastructure will increase support for wetland conservation among user groups. Further, it has forced the waterfowl community to consider the possible trade‐offs between managing land to achieve biological versus social objectives. We used publicly available, long‐term data sets to illustrate a method of incorporating human dimensions into waterfowl habitat planning and management. We used United States Fish and Wildlife Service waterfowl harvest survey data, United States Geological Survey band encounter data, and Cornell Lab of Ornithology eBird data to summarize travel characteristics of wetland bird enthusiasts (i.e., waterfowl hunters and birdwatchers) in the Atlantic Flyway. Greater than 90% of all trips by wetland bird enthusiasts occurred within their state of residence. We used data from New York, USA, to demonstrate how to construct discrete choice recreation demand models to identify factors that influence site selection and participation. We demonstrate how model outputs, such as the expected change in the number and geographic distribution of recreational trips (i.e., hunting or birdwatching), can be used as an objective metric to evaluate the benefits of alternative habitat acquisition and restoration projects relative to the human dimensions objective of the NAWMP. These data and methods show promise for incorporating human dimensions objectives into habitat delivery and understanding potential trade‐offs relative to biological objectives. Published 2017. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
A management strategy for the long-term conservation of the Endangered sand-dune lizard Liolaemus multimaculatus in the Pampean coastal dunes of Argentina
Authors: Kacoliris Federico P. , Velasco Melina A. , Kass Camila , Kass Nicolas , Simoy Verónica , Grilli Pablo G. , Martínez Aguirre Tomas , Di Pietro Diego O. , Williams Jorge D. , Berkunsky Igor
Published: August 2017

The sand-dune lizard Liolaemus multimaculatus is an Endangered species endemic to the Pampean coastal dunes of Argentina. To inform the development of a future Action Plan for this species, we investigated the demography and conservation status of all remaining populations, and we suggest management actions appropriate to local needs. We used population viability analysis to assess extinction risk in three inbreeding scenarios and estimate the minimum viable population and the minimum area requirement. To assess the current status of each local population, we used information related to population size, human pressure and connectivity. The results were then used to set and prioritize conservation management actions at local level. Our models indicated that populations of > 2,400 individuals would be viable in the long term and that inbreeding depression has a strong effect on extinction risk. The southern patches of coastal dune contain the largest populations of sand-dune lizards, and they are also better connected and less threatened. We suggest land protection as the priority management action for populations larger than the minimum viable population, whereas habitat recovery, when possible, should be the priority for patches of coastal dune smaller than the minimum area requirement. Supplementation with a small number of individuals could stabilize unviable populations but should be considered only in certain situations.

The long-term conservation of the sand-dune lizard will be feasible only if a conservation action plan is developed and implemented.
Where There is No EMS: Lay Providers in Emergency Medical Services Care - EMS as a Public Health Priority
Authors: Debenham Sierra , Fuller Matthew , Stewart Matthew , Price Raymond R.
Published: August 2017

By 2030, road traffic accidents are projected to be the fifth leading cause of death worldwide, with 90% of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). While high-quality, prehospital trauma care is crucial to reduce the number of trauma-related deaths, effective Emergency Medical Systems (EMS) are limited or absent in many LMICs. Although lay providers have long been recognized as the front lines of informal trauma care in countries without formal EMS, few efforts have been made to capitalize on these networks. We suggest that lay providers can become a strong foundation for nascent EMS through a four-fold approach: strengthening and expanding existing lay provider training programs; incentivizing lay providers; strengthening locally available first aid supply chains; and using technology to link lay provider networks.

DebenhamS, FullerM, StewartM, PriceRR. Where there is no EMS: lay providers in Emergency Medical Services care - EMS as a public health priority. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2017;32(6):593–595.
Estimating the human mutation rate from autozygous segments reveals population differences in human mutational processes
Authors: Narasimhan Vagheesh M. , Rahbari Raheleh , Scally Aylwyn , Wuster Arthur , Mason Dan , Xue Yali , Wright John , Trembath Richard C. , Maher Eamonn R. , van Heel David A. , Auton Adam , Hurles Matthew E. , Tyler-Smith Chris , Durbin Richard
Published: August 2017

Heterozygous mutations within homozygous sequences descended from a recent common ancestor offer a way to ascertain de novo mutations across multiple generations. Using exome sequences from 3222 British-Pakistani individuals with high parental relatedness, we estimate a mutation rate of 1.45 ± 0.05 × 10−8 per base pair per generation in autosomal coding sequence, with a corresponding non-crossover gene conversion rate of 8.75 ± 0.05 × 10−6 per base pair per generation. This is at the lower end of exome mutation rates previously estimated in parent–offspring trios, suggesting that post-zygotic mutations contribute little to the human germ-line mutation rate. We find frequent recurrence of mutations at polymorphic CpG sites, and an increase in C to T mutations in a 5ʹ CCG 3ʹ to 5ʹ CTG 3ʹ context in the Pakistani population compared to Europeans, suggesting that mutational processes have evolved rapidly between human populations.
Experiments suggesting extra-digestive effects of enteral pancreatic amylase and its peptides on glucose homeostasis in a pig model
Authors: Pierzynowski Stefan G. , Goncharova Kateryna , Gregory Peter C. , Weström Björn , Podpryatov Sergiy E. , Podpriatov Sergii S. , Woliński Jarosław , Repich Hlib , Wierup Nils , Lozinska Liudmyla
Published: August 2017

The studies presented were designed to highlight the impact of pancreatic enzymes on glycemic control and insulin response. Blood glucose and plasma insulin levels were monitored after intravenous, oral or direct gut glucose tolerance tests (GTT) in 6 pigs with an intact gastrointestinal tract and in 12 pigs following duodenal-jejunal bypass (DJB) surgery. In the intact pigs, pancreatic enzymes (Creon®) given orally 1 h prior to the GTT, lowered the blood glucose levels during the oral and meal GTT and reduced the plasma insulin response during the intravenous and meal GTT. In DJB pigs, blood glucose and plasma insulin levels were higher following glucose loading into the by-passed biliopancreatic limb as compared to that following glucose loading orally or into the common intestinal limb. Infusion of amylase or amylase peptides together with glucose into the biliopancreatic limb lowered blood glucose levels in DJB pigs. These preliminary data suggest new, extra-digestive, actions of enteral pancreatic enzymes – probably amylase or its peptides – on glucose homeostasis, with an reduction in net glucose absorption into the blood and in insulin response. This ability of digestive enzymes (amylase) to reduce post-prandial hyperglycaemia in an insulin-independent manner could aid in preventing the development of obesity and diabetes.
Ensemble of Thermostatically Controlled Loads: Statistical Physics Approach
Authors: Chertkov Michael , Chernyak Vladimir
Published: August 2017

Thermostatically controlled loads, e.g., air conditioners and heaters, are by far the most widespread consumers of electricity. Normally the devices are calibrated to provide the so-called bang-bang control – changing from on to off, and vice versa, depending on temperature. We considered aggregation of a large group of similar devices into a statistical ensemble, where the devices operate following the same dynamics, subject to stochastic perturbations and randomized, Poisson on/off switching policy. Using theoretical and computational tools of statistical physics, we analyzed how the ensemble relaxes to a stationary distribution and established a relationship between the relaxation and the statistics of the probability flux associated with devices’ cycling in the mixed (discrete, switch on/off, and continuous temperature) phase space. This allowed us to derive the spectrum of the non-equilibrium (detailed balance broken) statistical system and uncover how switching policy affects oscillatory trends and the speed of the relaxation. Relaxation of the ensemble is of practical interest because it describes how the ensemble recovers from significant perturbations, e.g., forced temporary switching off aimed at utilizing the flexibility of the ensemble to provide “demand response” services to change consumption temporarily to balance a larger power grid. We discuss how the statistical analysis can guide further development of the emerging demand response technology.
Tailoring Heterovalent Interface Formation with Light
Authors: Park Kwangwook , Alberi Kirstin
Published: August 2017

Integrating different semiconductor materials into an epitaxial device structure offers additional degrees of freedom to select for optimal material properties in each layer. However, interfaces between materials with different valences (i.e. III-V, II-VI and IV semiconductors) can be difficult to form with high quality. Using ZnSe/GaAs as a model system, we explore the use of ultraviolet (UV) illumination during heterovalent interface growth by molecular beam epitaxy as a way to modify the interface properties. We find that UV illumination alters the mixture of chemical bonds at the interface, permitting the formation of Ga-Se bonds that help to passivate the underlying GaAs layer. Illumination also helps to reduce defects in the ZnSe epilayer. These results suggest that moderate UV illumination during growth may be used as a way to improve the optical properties of both the GaAs and ZnSe layers on either side of the interface.
Disruption of the plant-specific CFS1 gene impairs autophagosome turnover and triggers EDS1-dependent cell death
Authors: Sutipatanasomboon Arpaporn , Herberth Stefanie , Alwood Ellen G. , Häweker Heidrun , Müller Britta , Shahriari Mojgan , Zienert Anke Y. , Marin Birger , Robatzek Silke , Praefcke Gerrit J. K. , Ayscough Kathryn R. , Hülskamp Martin , Schellmann Swen
Published: August 2017

Cell death, autophagy and endosomal sorting contribute to many physiological, developmental and immunological processes in plants. They are mechanistically interconnected and interdependent, but the molecular basis of their mutual regulation has only begun to emerge in plants. Here, we describe the identification and molecular characterization of CELL DEATH RELATED ENDOSOMAL FYVE/SYLF PROTEIN 1 (CFS1). The CFS1 protein interacts with the ENDOSOMAL SORTING COMPLEX REQUIRED FOR TRANSPORT I (ESCRT-I) component ELCH (ELC) and is localized at ESCRT-I-positive late endosomes likely through its PI3P and actin binding SH3YL1 Ysc84/Lsb4p Lsb3p plant FYVE (SYLF) domain. Mutant alleles of cfs1 exhibit auto-immune phenotypes including spontaneous lesions that show characteristics of hypersensitive response (HR). Autoimmunity in cfs1 is dependent on ENHANCED DISEASE SUSCEPTIBILITY 1 (EDS1)-mediated effector-triggered immunity (ETI) but independent from salicylic acid. Additionally, cfs1 mutants accumulate the autophagy markers ATG8 and NBR1 independently from EDS1. We hypothesize that CFS1 acts at the intersection of autophagosomes and endosomes and contributes to cellular homeostasis by mediating autophagosome turnover.
The Synergistic Effects of the Micro and Nano Particles in Micro-nano Composites on Enhancing the Resistance to Electrical Tree Degradation
Authors: Wang Wenxuan , Yang Ying
Published: August 2017

A new method of increasing the durability and reliability of polymer dielectrics has been proposed by designing a composite structure of the micro and nano particles. The synergistic effects of the micro particles and nano particles are found to enhance the resistance to electrical tree and extend the lifetime of polymer dielectrics for insulations. Epoxy loaded with the micro and nano SiO2 particles at different concentrations are prepared as micro-nano composites. The micro particles show the blocking effects on the electrical tree channel and the interfaces of the nano particles lead to the inhibiting effects on the tree inception and propagation. The lifetime of the micro-nano composite samples in the experiments extends to 4 times of the neat epoxy. The new type of micro-nano composites can be widely applied in future electronic and electrical energy areas.
Prognostic Significance of EDIL3 Expression and Correlation with Mesenchymal Phenotype and Microvessel Density in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Jeong Dongjun , Ban Seona , Oh Seunghyun , Jin Lee Su , Yong Park Seong , Koh Young Wha
Published: August 2017

We examined the prognostic significance of Epidermal Growth Factor-like repeats and Discoidin I-Like Domains 3 (EDIL3) expression and its correlations with mesenchymal phenotype and microvessel density in non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). A total of 268 NSCLC specimens were evaluated retrospectively by immunohistochemical staining for EDIL3, EMT markers (e-cadherin, β-catenin, and vimentin), and CD31 to measure microvessel density. EDIL3, e-cadherin, β-catenin, and vimentin were expressed in 16%, 22.8%, 3.7%, and 10.1% of the specimens, respectively. The mRNA level of EDIL3 in tumor was correlated with the level of EDIL3 protein expression using immunohistochemistry. In lung adenocarcinoma patients, EDIL3 expression was significantly correlated with low e-cadherin expression, high vimentin expression, and increased microvessel density (P < 0.001, P = 0.001, and P = 0.023, respectively). In lung squamous cell carcinoma patients, EDIL3 expression was significantly correlated with low e-cadherin expression and high vimentin expression (P = 0.021 and P = 0.002, respectively). In lung adenocarcinoma patients, EDIL3 was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival in a multivariate analysis (hazard ratio: 2.552, P = 0.004). EDIL3 is significantly correlated with mesenchymal phenotype, angiogenesis, and tumor progression in lung adenocarcinoma.
Nature and characteristics of temperature background effect for interactive respiration process
Authors: Gong Guangcai , Deng Xiaorui
Published: August 2017

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is much more crucial to human health than its atmospheric air quality counterpart. Improving indoor air environment requires investigating how different indoor air stability affects airflow trajectory. By presenting both manikin experiment and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation, we find that temperature background effect, i.e., indoor air stability, which is a measure of the nature or attribute of the capacity to keep the original or initial inertia force or inertia transmission state instead of turbulence diffusion or transmission restraining state, i.e., a kind of inertia stability, rather than a turbulence diffusion characteristic stability, is markedly affecting the interactive respiration process. So we define and derive a new parameter called G
c
number as a criterion to judge air stability. Furthermore, we find the phenomenon of inertia conjugation. Air stability and inertia conjugation, which named together as temperature background effect, work together on interactive respiration process. This work gives us a re-orientation of temperature difference agents and thus improves human being’s living environment.
Levobuipivacaine-Induced Dissemination of A549 Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Chan Shun-Ming , Lin Bo-Feng , Wong Chih-Shung , Chuang Wen-Ting , Chou Yu-Ting , Wu Zhi-Fu
Published: August 2017

While anaesthetics are frequently used on cancer patients during surgical procedures, their consequence on cancer progression remains to be elucidated. In this study, we sought to investigate the influence of local anesthetics on lung cancer cell dissemination in vitro and in vivo. A549 human non-small lung cancer cells were treated with various local anaesthetics including ropivacaine, lidocaine, levobupivacaine and bupivacaine. Cell barrier property was assessed using an electric cell-substrate impedance sensing (ECIS) system. The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of treated cells was studied by immunofluorescence staining. In vitro and in vivo cancer cell dissemination were investigated.Gene expression microarray and quantitative real-time PCR (qrt-PCR) assays were used to identify the genes responsible for levobupivacaine-mediated cancer cell dissemination.The results illustrated that only levobupivacaine induced EMT in the treated cells and also caused the dissemination of cancer cells in vitro. In addition, after intravenous injection, levobupivacaine encouraged cancer cell dissemination in vivo. Gene expression microarray, qrt-PCR and immunoblotting revealed that after levobupivacaine treatment, the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)- 2α gene was upregulated in cancer cells. Our findings suggest that levobupivacaine may induce A549 lung cancer cell dissemination both in vitro and in vivo. More specifically, HIF-2α signaling possibly contributes to levobupivacaine-mediated A549 lung cancer cell dissemination.
Multiple E3s promote the degradation of histone H3 variant Cse4
Authors: Cheng Haili , Bao Xin , Gan Xin , Luo Shiwen , Rao Hai
Published: August 2017

The histone H3-like protein Cse4/CENP-A acts as a key molecular marker that differentiates the special centromeric chromatin structures from bulk nucleosomes. As altered Cse4/CENP-A activity leads to genome instability, it is pivotal to understand the mechanism underlying Cse4 regulation. Here, we demonstrate that four ubiquitin ligases (i.e., Ubr1, Slx5, Psh1, and Rcy1) work in parallel to promote Cse4 turnover in yeast. Interestingly, Cse4 overexpression leads to cellular toxicity and cell cycle delay in yeast cells lacking PSH1, but not in cells lacking UBR1, suggesting different roles of these two degradation pathways. Our findings suggest that various ubiquitin ligases collaborate to keep the Cse4 level in check, providing a basis for further delineating the intricate network involved in Cse4 regulation.
Impulsiveness does not prevent cooperation from emerging but reduces its occurrence: an experiment with zebra finches
Authors: Chia Camille , Dubois Frédérique
Published: August 2017

Reciprocal altruism, the most probable mechanism for cooperation among unrelated individuals, can be modelled as a Prisoner’s Dilemma. This game predicts that cooperation should evolve whenever the players, who expect to interact repeatedly, make choices contingent to their partner’s behaviour. Experimental evidence, however, indicates that reciprocity is rare among animals. One reason for this would be that animals are very impulsive compared to humans. Several studies have reported that temporal discounting (that is, strong preferences for immediate benefits) has indeed a negative impact on the occurrence of cooperation. Yet, the role of impulsive action, another facet of impulsiveness, remains unexplored. Here, we conducted a laboratory experiment in which male and female zebra finches (Taenyopigia guttata) were paired assortatively with respect to their level of impulsive action and then played an alternating Prisoner’s Dilemma. As anticipated, we found that self-controlled pairs achieved high levels of cooperation by using a Generous Tit-for-Tat strategy, while impulsive birds that cooperated at a lower level, chose to cooperate with a fixed probability. If the inability of impulsive individuals to use reactive strategies are due to their reduced working memory capacity, thus our findings might contribute to explaining interspecific differences in cooperative behaviour.
Correlations of age and growth rate with microbiota composition in Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) larvae
Authors: Trinh Ly T. T. , Bakke Ingrid , Vadstein Olav
Published: August 2017

Little information is available on the link between host development (growth rate and ontogeny) and the composition of the microbiota in fish larvae. This study was carried out to examine potential correlations of microbiota composition with age and growth rate of Atlantic cod larvae. Small and large cod larvae of the same age, representing slow and fast growing individuals, were sampled 10 times during a period of 42 days post hatching (dph), and the composition of the larval microbiota was investigated using a PCR/DGGE (Denaturing Gradient Gel Electrophoresis) strategy. We found significant differences in the intestinal microbiota of small and large larvae of the same age for 4 of the 10 age stages studied. We further found that the variation in the composition of the larval microbiota was more strongly correlated to age than to growth rate for larvae up to 28 dph, whereas for the older larvae growth rate and age was equally correlated to the composition of the microbiota. These results indicate that larval development may structure the microbiota through a change in selection pressure due to host-microbe and microbe-microbe interactions, and that the composition of the microbiota may influence larval development through improved energy gain.
Fourier ptychographic microscopy with sparse representation
Authors: Zhang Yongbing , Song Pengming , Zhang Jian , Dai Qionghai
Published: August 2017

Fourier ptychographic microscopy (FPM) is a novel computational microscopy technique that provides intensity images with both wide field-of-view and high-resolution. By combining ideas from synthetic aperture and phase retrieval, FPM iteratively stitches together a number of variably illuminated, low-resolution intensity images in Fourier space to reconstruct a high-resolution complex sample image. Although FPM is able to bypass the space-bandwidth product (SBP) limit of the optical system, it is vulnerable to the various capturing noises and the reconstruction is easy to trap into the local optimum. To efficiently depress the noise and improve the performance of reconstructed high-resolution image, a FPM with sparse representation is proposed in this paper. The cost function of the reconstruction is formulated as a regularized optimization problem, where the data fidelity is constructed based on a maximum likelihood theory, and the regulation term is expressed as a small number of nonzero elements over an appropriate basis for both amplitude and phase of the reconstructed image. The Nash equilibrium is employed to obtain the approximated solution. We validate the proposed method with both simulated and real experimental data. The results show that the proposed method achieves state-of-the-art performance in comparison with other approaches.
Scalable fabrication of the graphitic substrates for graphene-enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Kaplas Tommi , Matikainen Antti , Nuutinen Tarmo , Suvanto Sari , Vahimaa Pasi , Svirko Yuri
Published: August 2017

We propose direct synthesis of ultra-thin graphitic films on a dielectric substrate using sacrificial Ni catalyst layer, which significantly increases the crystallinity of the photoresist pyrolyzed at the temperature of 800 °C and above. A considerable amount of multilayer graphene in the photoresist film pyrolyzed in the presence of the Ni catalyst gives rise to an enhancement of the Raman signal of dye Sudan III molecules deposited on the substrate. We demonstrate comparable enhancement of the Raman signal from Sudan III molecules deposited on the fabricated graphitic substrate and those deposited on graphene, which was conventionally transferred to the silica substrate.
Immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects of total flavonoids of Spatholobus suberectus Dunn on PCV2 infected mice
Authors: Fu Yuan-fang , Jiang Li-he , Zhao Wei-dan , Xi-nan Meng , Huang Shi-qi , Yang Jian , Hu Ting-jun , Chen Hai-lan
Published: August 2017

Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis of virus infection and antioxidants are becoming promising candidates as therapeutic agents. This study is designed to investigate the effect of total flavonoids of Spatholobus suberectus Dunn (TFSD) on oxidative stress in mice induced by porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) infection. The PCV2 infection leads to significant decrease in thymus and spleen indices, elevation of xanthine oxidase (XOD) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activities, reduction in GSH level and GSH to GSSG ratio and decline of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, indicating the formation of immunosuppression and oxidative stress. TFSD treatment recovered the alteration of viscera index, antioxidant content and activities of oxidative-associated enzymes to a level similar to control. Our findings suggested that PCV2 induced immunosuppression and oxidative stress in mice and TFSD might be able to protect animals from virus infection via regulation of immune function and inhibition of oxidative stress.
Strongly interactive 0D/2D hetero-structure of a ZnxCd1−xS nano-particle decorated phosphorene nano-sheet for enhanced visible-light photocatalytic H2 production
Authors: Ran Jingrun , Wang Xiuli , Zhu Bicheng , Qiao Shi-Zhang
Published: August 2017

The coupling of few-layer phosphorene nano-sheets with ZnxCd1−xS nano-particles greatly improved the visible-light photocatalytic H2-production activity.
Real-space evidence of the formation of the GCGC tetrad and its competition with the G-quartet on the Au(111) surface
Authors: Ding Yuanqi , Xie Lei , Zhang Chi , Xu Wei
Published: August 2017

The real-space evidence of the GCGC tetrad on Au(111), which is thermodynamically more favorable than the G-quartet-Na when 1mC molecules are provided.
Visible light-induced transition metal-catalyzed transformations: beyond conventional photosensitizers
Authors: Parasram Marvin , Gevorgyan Vladimir
Published: August 2017

Employment of simple transition metal (TM = Co, Fe, Cu, Pd, Pt, Au)-based photocatalyst (PC) has led to the dramatic acceleration of known TM-catalyzed reactions, as well as to the discovery of unprecedented chemical transformations.
Ginseng (Panax ginseng Meyer) oligopeptides regulate innate and adaptive immune responses in mice via increased macrophage phagocytosis capacity, NK cell activity and Th cells secretion
Authors: He Li-Xia , Ren Jin-Wei , Liu Rui , Chen Qi-He , Zhao Jian , Wu Xin , Zhang Zhao-Feng , Wang Jun-Bo , Pettinato Giuseppe , Li Yong
Published: August 2017

Traditionally used as a restorative medicine, ginseng (Panax ginseng Meyer) has been widely used and acclaimed herb in Chinese communities for thousands of years.
Enabling syntheses of diterpenoid alkaloids and related diterpenes by an oxidative dearomatization/Diels–Alder cycloaddition strategy
Authors: Liu Xiao-Yu , Qin Yong
Published: August 2017

Recent accomplishments in the total syntheses of diterpenoid alkaloids and their biosynthetically associated diterpenes have highly relied on an oxidative dearomatization/Diels–Alder cycloaddition strategy, and are highlighted in this article.
Quintuple super bonding between the superatoms of metallic clusters
Authors: Wang Haiyan , Cheng Longjiu
Published: August 2017

Quintuple super bonding in the Li20Mg3 cluster: Each icosahedron is an independent superatom and molecule-like electronic shell-closure is achieved via quintuple super bonding between two superatoms: [8e](1D2S)5–(1D2S)5[8e]. Such a quintuple super bonding makes a bridge between the jellium model and chemical bonding, which further expands the community of chemical bonds.
On-surface synthesis of heptacene and its interaction with a metal surface
Authors: Zugermeier Malte , Gruber Manuel , Schmid Martin , Klein Benedikt P. , Ruppenthal Lukas , Müller Philipp , Einholz Ralf , Hieringer Wolfgang , Berndt Richard , Bettinger Holger F. , Gottfried J. Michael
Published: August 2017

Heptacene was generated by surface-assisted didecarbonylation of an α-diketone precursor on a Ag(111) surface.
3D Bragg coherent diffractive imaging of five-fold multiply twinned gold nanoparticle
Authors: Kim Jong Woo , Ulvestad Andrew , Manna Sohini , Harder Ross , Fullerton Eric E. , Shpyrko Oleg G.
Published: August 2017

The formation mechanism of five-fold multiply twinned nanoparticles has been a long-term topic because of their geometrical incompatibility.
Poly(phenylene sulfide sulfone) based membranes with improved stability for vanadium redox flow batteries
Authors: Branchi Mario , Gigli Matteo , Mecheri Barbara , De Porcellinis Diana , Licoccia Silvia , D'Epifanio Alessandra
Published: August 2017

sPSS displays the best combination of conductivity, stability and permeability resulting in a selectivity ratio 3.5 times higher than those of sPEEK and Nafion.
Phase engineering of cobalt hydroxides using magnetic fields for enhanced supercapacitor performance
Authors: Dai Peng , Yan Taotao , Hu Lin , Pang Zhanwen , Bao Zhiwei , Wu Mingzai , Li Guang , Fang Jun , Peng Zhenmeng
Published: August 2017

We report on the selective synthesis of single crystal sheet-like α-Co(OH)2 and raft-like nanostructures of β-Co(OH)2 hydrothermally using hydrazine as a reducing agent.
A dual-functional gel-polymer electrolyte for lithium ion batteries with superior rate and safety performances
Authors: Li Xilin , Qian Kun , He Yan-Bing , Liu Cheng , An Decheng , Li Yiyang , Zhou Dong , Lin Zhiqun , Li Baohua , Yang Quan-Hong , Kang Feiyu
Published: August 2017

An attractive approach to fabricate high energy density and safe Li-ion batteries was proposed by utilizing a pentaerythritol tetraacrylate-based gel-polymer electrolyte.
A general strategy for the synthesis of layered double hydroxide nanoscrolls on arbitrary substrates: its formation and multifunction
Authors: Lv Weiyang , Mei Qingqing , Fu Huakang , Xiao Jianliang , Du Miao , Zheng Qiang
Published: August 2017

Layered double hydroxides with various morphologies were fabricated on arbitrary substrate surfaces via a mussel-inspired intermediate layer, which exhibited versatile and comprehensive performance for water remediation.
Metal–organic framework-derived CoSe2/(NiCo)Se2 box-in-box hollow nanocubes with enhanced electrochemical properties for sodium-ion storage and hydrogen evolution
Authors: Park Seung-Keun , Kim Jin Koo , Chan Kang Yun
Published: August 2017

Multishell structured metal selenide nanocubes, namely, Co/(NiCo)Se2 box-in-box structures with different shell compositions, were successfully synthesized by applying zeolitic imidazolate framework-67 (ZIF-67) as a template.
Synthesis of 2D/3D carbon hybrids by heterogeneous space-confined effect for electrochemical energy storage
Authors: Zhu Shan , Xu Kui , Sui Simi , Li Jiajun , Ma Liying , He Chunnian , Liu Enzuo , He Fang , Shi Chunsheng , Miao Ling , Jiang Jianjun , Zhao Naiqin
Published: August 2017

A graphene-reinforced N-doping porous carbon network is fabricated using a simple strategy for the electrodes of supercapacitors and lithium ion batteries.