bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterisation of functional domains in fission yeast Ams2 that are required for core histone gene transcription
Authors: Takayama Yuko , Shirai Masaki , Masuda Fumie
Published: November 2016

Histone gene expression is regulated in a cell cycle-dependent manner, with a peak at S phase, which is crucial for cell division and genome integrity. However, the detailed mechanisms by which expression of histone genes are tightly regulated remain largely unknown. Fission yeast Ams2, a GATA-type zinc finger motif-containing factor, is required for activation of S phase-specific core histone gene transcription. Here we report the molecular characterisation of Ams2. We show that the zinc finger motif in Ams2 is necessary to bind the histone gene promoter region and to activate histone gene transcription. An N-terminal region of Ams2 acts as a self-interaction domain. Intriguingly, N-terminally truncated Ams2 binds to the histone gene promoters, but does not fully activate histone gene transcription. These observations imply that Ams2 self-interactions are required for efficient core histone gene transcription. Moreover, we show that Ams2 interacts with Teb1, which itself binds to the core histone gene promoters. We discuss the relationships between Ams2 domains and efficient transcription of the core histone genes in fission yeast.
Fundamental Speed Limits to the Generation of Quantumness
Authors: Jing Jun , Wu Lian-Ao , del Campo Adolfo
Published: November 2016

Quantum physics dictates fundamental speed limits during time evolution. We present a quantum speed limit governing the generation of nonclassicality and the mutual incompatibility of two states connected by time evolution. This result is used to characterize the timescale required to generate a given amount of quantumness under an arbitrary physical process. The bound is found to be tight under pure dephasing dynamics. More generally, our analysis reveals the dependence on the initial and final states and non-Markovian effects.
Full-duplex bidirectional data transmission link using twisted lights multiplexing over 1.1-km orbital angular momentum fiber
Authors: Chen Shi , Liu Jun , Zhao Yifan , Zhu Long , Wang Andong , Li Shuhui , Du Jing , Du Cheng , Mo Qi , Wang Jian
Published: November 2016

We present a full-duplex bidirectional data transmission link using twisted lights multiplexing over 1.1-km orbital angular momentum (OAM) fiber. OAM+1 and OAM−1 modes carrying 20-Gbit/s quadrature phase-shift keying (QPSK) signals are employed in the downlink and uplink transmission experiments. The observed mode crosstalks are less than −15.2 dB, and the full-duplex crosstalks are less than −12.7 dB. The measured full-duplex optical signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR) penalties at a bit-error rate (BER) of 2 × 10−3 are ~2.4 dB in the downlink transmission and ~2.3 dB in the uplink transmission. The obtained results show favorable full-duplex twisted lights multiplexing data transmission performance in a km-scale OAM fiber link.
How does the spin-state of Co ions affect the insulator-metal transition in Bi2A2Co2O8 (A = Ca, Sr, Ba)?
Authors: Huang Xiaokun , Zhang Weiyi
Published: November 2016

The misfit layered Bi2A2Co2O8 (A = Ca, Sr, Ba) compounds experience an insulator to metal transition as A’s ionic radius increases. This feature is contradictory to the conventional wisdom that larger lattice constant favors insulating rather than metallic state, and is also difficult to be reconciled using the Anderson weak localization theory. In this paper, we show from the first-principles calculation that an insulator-metal transition takes place from a nonmagnetic low-spin state of Co3+ ions to a hexagonally arranged intermediate-spin low-spin mixed-state in CoO2 plane when ionic radius increases from Ca to Ba. The predicted low-spin state of Bi2Ca2Co2O8 and Bi2Sr2Co2O8 and intermediate-spin low-spin mixed-state of Bi2Ba2Co2O8 are consistent not only with their measured transport properties, but also with the magnetic-field suppressed specific-heat peak observed at the transition temperature. In agreement with experiments, strong electronic correlation is required to stabilize the low-spin insulator and intermediate-spin low-spin metal.
Generation of four-photon polarization entangled decoherence-free states with cross-Kerr nonlinearity
Authors: Wang Meiyu , Yan Fengli , Gao Ting
Published: November 2016

We propose a theoretical protocol for preparing four-photon polarization entangled decoherence-free states, which are immune to the collective noise. With the assistance of the cross-Kerr nonlinearities, a two-photon spatial entanglement gate, two controlled-NOT gates, a four-photon polarization entanglement gate are inserted into the circuit, where X homodyne measurements are aptly applied. Combined with some swap gates and simple linear optical elements, four-photon polarization entangled decoherence-free states which can be utilized to represent two logical qubits, |0〉L and |1〉L are achieved at the output ports of the circuit. This generation scheme may be implemented with current experimental techniques.
Noncovalent and site-directed spin labeling of duplex RNA
Authors: Kamble Nilesh R. , Gränz Markus , Prisner Thomas F. , Sigurdsson Snorri Th.
Published: November 2016

Ǵ(G-spin) is a readily synthesized, noncovalent nitroxide spin label for orientation-dependent distance measurements in RNA by PELDOR (DEER) spectroscopy.
Supramolecular organization of perfluorinated 1H-indazoles in the solid state using X-ray crystallography, SSNMR and sensitive (VCD) and non sensitive (MIR, FIR and Raman) to chirality vibrational spectroscopies
Authors: Quesada-Moreno María M. , Avilés-Moreno Juan Ramón , López-González Juan Jesús , Jacob Kane , Vendier Laure , Etienne Michel , Alkorta Ibon , Elguero José , Claramunt Rosa M.
Published: November 2016

The determination of the AC of three perfluorinated 1H-indazoles that resolve spontaneously as conglomerates.
A Ru–Ru pair housed in ruthenium phthalocyanine: the role of a “cage” architecture in the molecule coupling with the Ag(111) surface
Authors: Alippi Paola , Lanzilotto Valeria , Paoletti Anna Maria , Mattioli Giuseppe , Zanotti Gloria , Pennesi Giovanna , Filippone Francesco , Cossaro Albano , Verdini Alberto , Morgante Alberto , Amore Bonapasta Aldo
Published: November 2016

A combined experimental and theoretical study on the Ru–Pc dimer on Ag(111) proves surface-to-molecule charge transfer and predicts magnetic moment quenching.
Tuning quantum electron and phonon transport in two-dimensional materials by strain engineering: a Green's function based study
Authors: Sandonas Leonardo Medrano , Gutierrez Rafael , Pecchia Alessandro , Seifert Gotthard , Cuniberti Gianaurelio
Published: November 2016

The electron and phonon transport properties can be tuned by strain engineering of the transport setup (contact–device–contact).
Roles of the methyl and methylene groups of mercapto acids in the photoluminescence efficiency and carrier trapping dynamics of CdTe QDs
Authors: Chandra Sekhar M. , De Apurba , Hossain Sk Saddam , Samanta Anunay
Published: November 2016

Highly luminescent CdTe QDs capped by mercapto acids are developed and the influence of capping agents on luminescence and carrier trapping dynamics is studied.
Controlling photophysics of styrylnaphthalimides through TICT, fluorescence and E,Z-photoisomerization interplay
Authors: Panchenko Pavel A. , Arkhipova Antonina N. , Fedorova Olga A. , Fedorov Yuri V. , Zakharko Marina A. , Arkhipov Dmitry E. , Jonusauskas Gediminas
Published: November 2016

The steady-state and time-resolved spectral properties of styrylnaphthalimides are studied in various solvents.
Correction: Modeling the surface chemistry of biomass model compounds on oxygen-covered Rh(100)
Authors: Caglar B. , Niemantsverdriet J. W. (Hans) , Weststrate C. J. (Kees-Jan)
Published: November 2016

Correction for ‘Modeling the surface chemistry of biomass model compounds on oxygen-covered Rh(100)’ by B. Caglar et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2016, 18, 23888–23903.
Concurrent filtration and inactivation of bacteria using poly(vinyl alcohol-co-ethylene) nanofibrous membrane facilely modified using chitosan and graphene oxide
Authors: Liu Ke , Cheng Pan , Wang Yuan , Zhong Weibing , Lu Zhentan , Li Mufang , Liu Qiongzhen , Wang Wenwen , Zhu Qing , Wang Dong
Published: November 2016

PVA-co-PE nanofiber-based membrane facilely decorated using chitosan/graphene-oxide nanosheets for the dual-purpose of filtration and inactivation of bacteria.
AIE phenomena of a cyanostilbene derivative as a probe of molecular assembly processes
Authors: Ito Fuyuki , Fujimori Jun-ichi , Oka Narumi , Sliwa Michel , Ruckebusch Cyril , Ito Syoji , Miyasaka Hiroshi
Published: November 2016

The initial processes of the crystallization of a solute molecule, 1-cyano-trans-1,2-bis-(4′-methylbiphenyl)-ethylene (CN-MBE) in binary solution (water and acetone), were investigated by means of fluorescence spectroscopy as well as scanning electron microscopy (SEM). With an increase in the volume fraction (Vw) of the poor solvent (water) in the solution, a drastic change in the fluorescence spectra and intensity of CN-MBE was observed. This change was attributed to aggregation induced emission (AIE). By analyzing the evolution of AIE by multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares (MCR-ALS), it was revealed that four main species appeared in the solution depending on the Vw values. On the basis of molecular exciton theory, we assigned these four emissive states to the monomer, H-dimer, J-dimer, and H-aggregates. Interestingly, the J-dimer state was observed only in a Vw range of 40% to 50%, just before the formation of the aggregate. This result suggests that the J-dimer plays an important role as the precursor for larger aggregates leading to crystal formation. By integrating the present results with previous work on the crystallization of CN-MBA through solvent evaporation, we discussed the dynamics of the crystallization from the viewpoint of the sequence of molecular species appearing in the aggregation in solution.
Evaluation of chemical modification effects on DNA plasmid transfection efficiency of single-walled carbon nanotube–succinate– polyethylenimine conjugates as non-viral gene carriers
Authors: Hashem Nia Azadeh , Behnam Behzad , Taghavi Sahar , Oroojalian Fatemeh , Eshghi Hossein , Shier Wayne T. , Abnous Khalil , Ramezani Mohammad
Published: November 2016

Efficient delivery of pDNA using SWNT–succinate–PEI conjugates.
Merging visible-light photoredox and copper catalysis in catalytic aerobic oxidation of amines to nitriles
Authors: Tao Chuanzhou , Wang Bin , Sun Lei , Liu Zhou , Zhai Yadong , Zhang Xiulian , Wang Jian
Published: November 2016

Visible-light-initiated homogeneous oxidative synthesis of nitriles from amines was accomplished through a combined use of photoredox and copper catalysis.
Preparation and characterization of the tolerance to acid/alkaline and anti-oil-fouling of regenerated cellulose membranes for oil–water separation
Authors: Zhang Wanfa , Chen Xu , Pan Jiefeng , Gao Congjie , Shen Jiangnan
Published: November 2016

Novel regenerated cellulose (RC) membranes were fabricated from five non-derivative solvents (NaOH/urea/H2O, NaOH/thiourea/H2O, LiOH/urea/H2O, NaOH/urea/thiourea/H2O and LiOH/urea/thiourea/H2O) for oil–water separation.
Durable porous polyaniline supported ionic liquid coating for the highly effective solid phase microextraction of trace fatty alcohols in drinks
Authors: Ai Youhong , Wu Mian , Yang Liu , Zhao Faqiong , Zeng Baizhao
Published: November 2016

A polyaniline (PANI)-ionic liquid (IL) based solid phase microextraction (SPME) coating is presented.
Efficient removal of HCN through catalytic hydrolysis and oxidation on Cu/CoSPc/Ce metal-modified activated carbon under low oxygen conditions
Authors: Wang Langlang , Wang Xueqian , Jing Xuli , Ning Ping
Published: November 2016

The hydrogen cyanide (HCN) removal efficiency of activated carbon modified with different metals (Cu(NO)3, cobalt sulfonated phthalocyanine (CoSPc) and Ce(NO3)3·6H2O) was studied under low oxygen conditions. The reaction pathways are also proposed.
Mixed matrix membranes prepared from non-dried MOFs for CO2/CH4 separations
Authors: Kertik Aylin , Khan Asim Laeeq , Vankelecom Ivo F. J.
Published: November 2016

This work explores MMM preparation by synthesising MOF particles inside a polymer solution, and as-synthesised MOFs to achieve high loading.
Therapeutic effect of quantum dots for cancer treatment
Authors: Zhao Mei-Xia , Zhu Bing-Jie , Yao Wen-Jing , Chen Di-Feng
Published: November 2016

The therapeutic effect of Qdots for cancer treatment arises from ROS-induced cell apoptosis and inhibited tumor growth in vivo.
Performance and modeling of a moving bed biofilm process: nickel and chromium heavy metal removal from industrial wastewater
Authors: AghaBeiki Sepideh , Rad Ali Shokuhi , Shokrolahzadeh Ali
Published: November 2016

The process of a lab-scale moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) using simulated sugar-manufacturing wastewater as feed was investigated.
Simultaneous construction of two linkages for the on-surface synthesis of imine–boroxine hybrid covalent organic frameworks
Authors: Yue Jie-Yu , Mo Yi-Ping , Li Shu-Ying , Dong Wei-Long , Chen Ting , Wang Dong
Published: November 2016

The orthogonality between the Schiff base reaction and the boronic acid dehydration reaction is explored during the on-surface synthesis process.
Hierarchically porous carbons derived from polyaniline by “nanotube seeding” for high-performance ionic liquid-based supercapacitors
Authors: Gao Biaofeng , Zhou Haitao , Yang Jianhong
Published: November 2016

Hierarchically porous carbons derived from polyaniline by “nanotube seeding” for high-performance supercapacitors.
Synthetic biology routes to bio-artificial intelligence
Authors: Nesbeth Darren N. , Zaikin Alexey , Saka Yasushi , Romano M. Carmen , Giuraniuc Claudiu V. , Kanakov Oleg , Laptyeva Tetyana
Published: November 2016

The design of synthetic gene networks (SGNs) has advanced to the extent that novel genetic circuits are now being tested for their ability to recapitulate archetypal learning behaviours first defined in the fields of machine and animal learning. Here, we discuss the biological implementation of a perceptron algorithm for linear classification of input data. An expansion of this biological design that encompasses cellular ‘teachers’ and ‘students’ is also examined. We also discuss implementation of Pavlovian associative learning using SGNs and present an example of such a scheme and in silico simulation of its performance. In addition to designed SGNs, we also consider the option to establish conditions in which a population of SGNs can evolve diversity in order to better contend with complex input data. Finally, we compare recent ethical concerns in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) and the future challenges raised by bio-artificial intelligence (BI).
Societal impact of synthetic biology: responsible research and innovation (RRI)
Authors: Gregorowius Daniel , Deplazes-Zemp Anna
Published: November 2016

Synthetic biology is an emerging field at the interface between biology and engineering, which has generated many expectations for beneficial biomedical and biotechnological applications. At the same time, however, it has also raised concerns about risks or the aim of producing new forms of living organisms. Researchers from different disciplines as well as policymakers and the general public have expressed the need for a form of technology assessment that not only deals with technical aspects, but also includes societal and ethical issues. A recent and very influential model of technology assessment that tries to implement these aims is known as RRI (Responsible Research and Innovation). In this paper, we introduce this model and its historical precursor strategies. Based on the societal and ethical issues which are presented in the current literature, we discuss challenges and opportunities of applying the RRI model for the assessment of synthetic biology.
HeartMate II Left Ventricular Assist Device Pump Exchange: A Single-Institution Experience
Authors: Shaikh Asad , Joseph Susan , Lima Brian , Hall Shelley , Malyala Rajasekhar , Rafael Aldo , Gonzalez-Stawinski Gonzalo , Chamogeorgakis Themistokles
Published: November 2016

Background Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) have revolutionized the treatment of patients with end-stage heart failure. These devices are replaced when pump complications arise if heart transplant is not possible. We present our experience with HeartMate II (HMII (Thoratec, Plesanton, California, United States)) LVAD pump exchange.

Materials and Methods We retrospectively reviewed all cases that required pump exchange due to LVAD complication from November 2011 until June 2016 at a single high-volume institution. The indications, demographics, and outcome were extracted and analyzed.

Results Of 250 total patients with implanted HMII LVADs, 16 (6%) required pump exchange during the study period. The initial indications for LVAD placement in these patients were bridge to transplantation (n = 6 [37.5%]) or destination therapy (n = 10 [62.5%]). Fifteen patients (93.8%) required pump exchange due to pump thrombosis and 1 (6.2%) due to refractory driveline infection. Nine patients (56.2%) underwent repeat median sternotomy while a left subcostal approach was used in the remaining seven patients. Fifteen patients (93.7%) survived until hospital discharge. During the follow-up period (median, 155 days), 11 patients remained alive and 4 of these underwent successful cardiac transplantation.

Conclusion HMII LVAD pump exchange can be safely performed for driveline infection or pump thrombosis when heart transplantation is not an option.
Bistable gaits and wobbling induced by pedestrian-bridge interactions
Authors: Belykh Igor V. , Jeter Russell , Belykh Vladimir N.
Published: November 2016

Several modern footbridges around the world have experienced large lateral vibrations during crowd loading events. The onset of large-amplitude bridge wobbling has generally been attributed to crowd synchrony; although, its role in the initiation of wobbling has been challenged. To study the contribution of a single pedestrian into overall, possibly unsynchronized, crowd dynamics, we use a bio-mechanically inspired inverted pendulum model of human balance and analyze its bi-directional interaction with a lively bridge. We first derive analytical estimates on the frequency of pedestrian's lateral gait in the absence of bridge motion. Then, through theory and numerics, we demonstrate that pedestrian-bridge interactions can induce bistable lateral gaits such that switching between the gaits can initiate large-amplitude wobbling. We also analyze the role of stride frequency and the pedestrian's mass in hysteretic transitions between the two types of wobbling. Our results support a claim that the overall foot force of pedestrians walking out of phase can cause significant bridge vibrations.
Quantum Hurwitz numbers and Macdonald polynomials
Authors: Harnad J.
Published: November 2016

Parametric families in the center Z(C[Sn]) of the group algebra of the symmetric group are obtained by identifying the indeterminates in the generating function for Macdonald polynomials as commuting Jucys-Murphy elements. Their eigenvalues provide coefficients in the double Schur function expansion of 2D Toda τ-functions of hypergeometric type. Expressing these in the basis of products of power sum symmetric functions, the coefficients may be interpreted geometrically as parametric families of quantum Hurwitz numbers, enumerating weighted branched coverings of the Riemann sphere. Combinatorially, they give quantum weighted sums over paths in the Cayley graph of Sn generated by transpositions. Dual pairs of bases for the algebra of symmetric functions with respect to the scalar product in which the Macdonald polynomials are orthogonal provide both the geometrical and combinatorial significance of these quantum weighted enumerative invariants.
Lipid phase behavior studied with a quartz crystal microbalance: A technique for biophysical studies with applications in screening
Authors: Peschel Astrid , Langhoff Arne , Uhl Eva , Dathathreyan Aruna , Haindl Susanne , Johannsmann Diethelm , Reviakine Ilya
Published: November 2016

Quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) is emerging as a versatile tool for studying lipid phase behavior. The technique is attractive for fundamental biophysical studies as well applications because of its simplicity, flexibility, and ability to work with very small amounts of material crucial for biomedical studies. Further progress hinges on the understanding of the mechanism, by which a surface-acoustic technique such as QCM, senses lipid phase changes. Here, we use a custom-built instrument with improved sensitivity to investigate phase behavior in solid-supported lipid systems of different geometries (adsorbed liposomes and bilayers). We show that we can detect a model anesthetic (ethanol) through its effect on the lipid phase behavior. Further, through the analysis of the overtone dependence of the phase transition parameters, we show that hydrodynamic effects are important in the case of adsorbed liposomes, and viscoelasticity is significant in supported bilayers, while layer thickness changes make up the strongest contribution in both systems.
Increasing the thermal conductivity of silicone based fluids using carbon nanofibers
Authors: Vales-Pinzon C. , Vega-Flick A. , Pech-May N. W. , Alvarado-Gil J. J. , Medina-Esquivel R. A. , Zambrano-Arjona M. A. , Mendez-Gamboa J. A.
Published: November 2016

Heat transfer in silicone fluids loaded with high thermal conductivity carbon nanofibers was studied using photoacoustics and thermal wave resonator cavity. It is shown that heat transport depends strongly on volume fraction of carbon nanofibers; in particular, a low loading percentage is enough to obtain significant changes in thermal conductivity. Theoretical models were used to determine how heat transfer is affected by structural formations in the composite, such as packing fraction and aspect ratio (form factor) of carbon nanofiber agglomerates in the high viscosity fluid matrix. Our results may find practical applications in systems, in which the carbon nanofibers can facilitate heat dissipation in the electronic devices.
Nonlinear coupling of flexural mode and extensional bulk mode in micromechanical resonators
Authors: Zhang Tianyi , Ren Juan , Wei Xueyong , Jiang Zhuangde , Huan Ronghua
Published: November 2016

The effect of coupling between the extensional bulk mode and the flexural mode of a cantilever beam resonator has been experimentally studied by exciting the two modes simultaneously. The modal frequency shift of linear extensional bulk mode shows a quadratic relationship with the square of flexural mode's amplitude displacement, and a frequency shift up to 1492 Hz is observed when the flexural mode is driven by a AC signal Vac of 3 V and a DC bias of 30 V. The flexural mode shows a Duffing-like behavior with a softening nonlinearity and its frequency shift is influenced not only by its own nonlinear amplitude-frequency effect but also the extensional mode's amplitude as predicted. The nonlinear coupling coefficient is found to be about two orders of magnitude larger than the softening nonlinearity.
Prospect for tunneling anisotropic magneto-resistance in ferrimagnets: Spin-orbit coupling effects in Mn3Ge and Mn3Ga
Authors: Khmelevskyi S. , Shick A. B. , Mohn P.
Published: November 2016

Magnetic anisotropic phenomena in Mn3Ge and Mn3Ga ferrimagnets are studied by first-principles density functional theory calculations. We find a large positive magnetic anisotropy energy, associated with the Mn-atoms in the 4d-crystallographic positions. Sizable anisotropy in the density of states is found in the vicinity of the Fermi energy, and suggests the promising possibility for the generation of a sizable tunneling anisotropic magneto-resistance effect (TAMR). The use of the ferrimagnetic materials for TAMR magnetic tunneling junctions is discussed as a prospective alternative for ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic materials.
Dynamics of plant communities and the impact of saltwater intrusion on the floodplains of Kakadu National Park
Authors: Pettit N. E. , Bayliss P. , Bartolo R.
Published: November 2016

The distribution of vegetation communities on floodplains within Kakadu National Park, in tropical northern Australia, is related to micro-topography and, therefore, water depth and duration of flooding. Floodplains of the Kakadu Region, because of their proximity to the coast, are most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, with saltwater intrusion, as a result of sea-level rise, being a serious risk. Our main objectives were to determine the variability of the distribution of plant communities on the floodplains and understand the potential risk of increased saltwater intrusion to these communities. We present data on the natural salinity-tolerance range of selected floodplain plants and discuss the likely effects of saltwater intrusion on floodplain plant distributions and productivity. The results of change analysis using high spatial-resolution satellite data showed the importance of the variation of water availability in determining patterns of plant communities. Hydrodynamic modelling suggests that sea level rises will result in 40% of the floodplain transformed into saline habitats by 2070. The most obvious effect of this would be the conversion of the freshwater vegetation to salt-tolerant mangroves and other salt-marsh plants, with a concomitant change in animals and their use of these areas.
Calcium channel regulator Mid1 links TORC2-mediated changes in mitochondrial respiration to autophagy
Authors: Vlahakis Ariadne , Lopez Muniozguren Nerea , Powers Ted
Published: November 2016

Autophagy is a catabolic process that recycles cytoplasmic contents and is crucial for cell survival during stress. The target of rapamycin (TOR) kinase regulates autophagy as part of two distinct protein complexes, TORC1 and TORC2. TORC1 negatively regulates autophagy according to nitrogen availability. In contrast, TORC2 functions as a positive regulator of autophagy during amino acid starvation, via its target kinase Ypk1, by repressing the activity of the calcium-dependent phosphatase calcineurin and promoting the general amino acid control (GAAC) response. Precisely how TORC2-Ypk1 signaling regulates calcineurin within this pathway remains unknown. Here we demonstrate that activation of calcineurin requires Mid1, an endoplasmic reticulum–localized calcium channel regulatory protein implicated in the oxidative stress response. We find that normal mitochondrial respiration is perturbed in TORC2-Ypk1–deficient cells, which results in the accumulation of mitochondrial-derived reactive oxygen species that signal to Mid1 to activate calcineurin, thereby inhibiting the GAAC response and autophagy. These findings describe a novel pathway involving TORC2, mitochondrial oxidative stress, and calcium homeostasis for autophagy regulation.
Protein sorting at the ER–Golgi interface
Authors: Gomez-Navarro Natalia , Miller Elizabeth
Published: November 2016

Protein traffic is of critical importance for normal cellular physiology. In eukaryotes, spherical transport vesicles move proteins and lipids from one internal membrane-bound compartment to another within the secretory pathway. The process of directing each individual protein to a specific destination (known as protein sorting) is a crucial event that is intrinsically linked to vesicle biogenesis. In this review, we summarize the principles of cargo sorting by the vesicle traffic machinery and consider the diverse mechanisms by which cargo proteins are selected and captured into different transport vesicles. We focus on the first two compartments of the secretory pathway: the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi. We provide an overview of the complexity and diversity of cargo adaptor function and regulation, focusing on recent mechanistic discoveries that have revealed insight into protein sorting in cells.
Progranulin and the receptor tyrosine kinase EphA2, partners in crime?
Authors: Chitramuthu Babykumari , Bateman Andrew
Published: November 2016

Progranulin is a secreted protein with roles in tumorigenesis, inflammation, and neurobiology, but its signaling receptors have remained unclear. In this issue, Neill et al. (2016. J. Cell Biol. https://doi.org/10.1083/jcb.201603079) identify the tyrosine kinase EphA2 as a strong candidate for such a receptor, providing insight into progranulin and EphA2 signaling.
What does PD-L1 positive or negative mean?
Authors: Ribas Antoni , Hu-Lieskovan Siwen
Published: November 2016

Expression of the programmed death-1 (PD-1) ligand 1 (PD-L1) is used to select patients and analyze responses to anti–PD-1/L1 antibodies. The expression of PD-L1 is regulated in different ways, which leads to a different significance of its presence or absence. PD-L1 positivity may be a result of genetic events leading to constitutive PD-L1 expression on cancer cells or inducible PD-L1 expression on cancer cells and noncancer cells in response to a T cell infiltrate. A tumor may be PD-L1 negative because it has no T cell infiltrate, which may be reversed with an immune response. Finally, a tumor that is unable to express PD-L1 because of a genetic event will always be negative for PD-L1 on cancer cells.
The role of decompression and micro-jetting in shock wave synthesis experiments
Authors: Schlothauer T , Schimpf C , Schwarz M R , Heide G , Kroke E
Published: November 2016

In a set of shock experiments under comparable porosities at pressures of about 35 GPa the melting behavior of porous copper was investigated. All experiments were performed with the impedance corrected sample recovery system and different degrees of decompression were used. It was possible to reduce the degree of molten metal in parts of the sample after sample recovery down to zero. The avoiding of melting was possible only by avoiding larger degrees of adiabatic decompression. This behavior implies a complete dependence of the melting on the release path for porous copper under the given conditions. The zones, where the melting processes are avoided, include also areas with intense micro jetting. Because also in these zones melting does not occur, it is possible that the melting curve of copper along the Hugoniot is not yet solved. The experiments have verified, that it is possible to use equation-of-state calculations for the solid state only, concerning the pressure area of currently commercial interest for the production of nitrides and diamond with copper-powder as pressure medium. Furthermore in this work the role of different parts of the sample recovery capsule is described to improve the comparability of shock wave synthesis experiments. On the other hand, the experimentally results given in this work show significant differences to data, obtained by a number of simulations.
Phylogeny and Haplotype Analysis of Fungi Within the Fusarium incarnatum-equiseti Species Complex
Authors: Ramdial H. , Latchoo R. K. , Hosein F. N. , Rampersad S. N.
Published: November 2016

Fusarium spp. are ranked among the top 10 most economically and scientifically important plant-pathogenic fungi in the world and are associated with plant diseases that include fruit decay of a number of crops. Fusarium isolates infecting bell pepper in Trinidad were identified based on sequence comparisons of the translation elongation factor gene (EF-1a) with sequences of Fusarium incarnatum-equiseti species complex (FIESC) verified in the FUSARIUM-ID database. Eighty-two isolates were identified as belonging to one of four phylogenetic species within the subclades FIESC-1, FIESC-15, FIESC-16, and FIESC-26, with the majority of isolates belonging to FIESC-15. A comparison of the level of DNA polymorphism and phylogenetic inference for sequences of the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2) and EF-1a sequences for Trinidad and FUSARIUM-ID type species was carried out. The ITS sequences were less informative, had lower haplotype diversity and restricted haplotype distribution, and resulted in poor resolution and taxa placement in the consensus maximum-likelihood tree. EF-1a sequences enabled strongly supported phylogenetic inference with highly resolved branching patterns of the 30 phylogenetic species within the FIESC and placement of representative Trinidad isolates. Therefore, global phylogeny was inferred from EF-1a sequences representing 11 countries, and separation into distinct Incarnatum and Equiseti clades was again evident. In total, 42 haplotypes were identified: 12 were shared and the remaining were unique haplotypes. The most diverse haplotype was represented by sequences from China, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Trinidad and consisted exclusively of F. incarnatum isolates. Spain had the highest haplotype diversity, perhaps because both F. equiseti and F. incarnatum sequences were represented; followed by the United States, which contributed both F. equiseti and F. incarnatum sequences to the data set; then by countries representing Southeast Asia (China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Philippines) and Trinidad; both of these regions were represented by only F. incarnatum sequences. Trinidad shared two haplotypes with China and one haplotype with the United States for only F. incarnatum isolates. The findings of this study are important for devising disease management strategies and for understanding the phylogenetic relationships among members of the FIESC.
Fusobacterium nucleatum
Authors: Yocum Denise
Published: November 2016

This article describes an uncommon presentation of a subdural empyema in a young man. Because the patient's initial presentation consisted of nonspecific abdominal complaints, subdural empyema was not initially considered. However, a thorough medical history, including recent travel history, and appropriate multidisciplinary consultation, were key to reaching the correct diagnosis.
Patient characteristics associated with primary care PA and APRN roles
Authors: Everett Christine M. , Morgan Perri , Jackson George L.
Published: November 2016

Objectives:

Physician assistants (PAs) and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) can perform multiple roles on primary care teams, but limited research describes the patients they serve. We sought to identify patient characteristics associated with roles of primary care PAs and APRNs.

Methods:

We analyzed adult respondents to the 2010 Health Tracking Household Survey with a primary care usual provider (physician, PA, or APRN). The dependent variable is the PA or APRN role. Explanatory variables include sociodemographic characteristics, attitudes toward use, delayed care, and perceived health.

Results:

Compared with respondents seen by physicians only, respondents seen by a PA or APRN in any role were more likely to be younger, female, living in rural areas, and put off needed medical care. Respondents seen by a PA or APRN as their usual provider were more likely to report better health. Patients seen by a PA or APRN in a supplemental role reported being sicker, more educated, and attitudinally less likely to use healthcare.

Conclusions:

PAs and APRNs perform different roles for different types of patients.
User-Centered Design and Printed Educational Materials: A Focus Group Study of Primary Care Physician Preferences
Authors: Grudniewicz Agnes , Bhattacharyya Onil , McKibbon K. Ann , Straus Sharon E.
Published: November 2016

Introduction:

It is challenging for primary care physicians (PCPs) to review and apply the growing amount of clinical evidence available. Printed educational materials (PEMs), which synthesize evidence, are often ineffective at improving knowledge, possibly due to poor design and limited uptake. In this study, we collected PCP preferences for the design and content of physician-oriented PEMs and determined key attributes that may increase their usability and uptake.

Methods:

We held 90-minute focus groups with PCPs in Toronto, ON, Canada. Focus groups included discussion about whether and how participants use PEMs, feedback on three examples of PEMs, and a discussion on general format and design preferences in PEMs. We analyzed focus group transcripts using a thematic analysis and summarized results in a list of user preferences.

Results:

Four focus groups were held with 13 PCPs. We found that participants only read PEMs relevant to their patients and prefer short, concise documents, with links to sources that can provide more detailed information. Simplicity of materials was important, with many participants preferring PEMs without lengthy backgrounds or scientific explanations. Most participants wanted to see key messages highlighted to easily assess the relevance of the materials to their practice. Some participants shared physician-oriented PEMs with patients.

Discussion:

This study shows that PCPs may prefer shorter, simpler, and more concise documents that have less scientific detail but provide references to further information sources. It is important to understand end user preferences for the design and content of these materials to enhance their uptake.
Death During Simulation: A Literature Review
Authors: Heller Benjamin J. , DeMaria Samuel , Katz Daniel , Heller Joshua A. , Goldberg Andrew T.
Published: November 2016

Introduction:

One of the goals of simulation is to teach subjects critical skills and knowledge applicable to live encounters, without the risk of harming actual patients. Although simulation education has surged in medical training over the last two decades, several ethically challenging educational methods have arisen. Simulated death has arisen as one of these challenging issues and currently there is no consensus regarding how to best manage this controversial topic in the simulated environment. The goal of this review is to analyze how simulated mortality has been used and discover whether or not this tool is beneficial to learners.

Methods:

In May 2016, the authors performed a literature search on both Pubmed and the Cochrane database using multiple variations of keywords; they then searched bibliographies and related articles.

Results:

There were 901 articles acquired in the initial search. The authors eliminated articles that were not relevant to the subject matter. After adding articles from bibliographies and related articles, the authors included the 43 articles cited in this article.

Discussion:

As a result, the authors of this article believe that death, when used appropriately in simulation, can be an effective teaching tool and can be used in a responsible manner.
A Theory-Based Study of Factors Explaining General Practitioners' Intention to Use and Participation in Electronic Continuing Medical Education
Authors: Hadadgar Arash , Changiz Tahereh , Dehghani Zahra , Backheden Magnus , Mirshahzadeh Nahidalsadat , Zary Nabil , Masiello Italo
Published: November 2016

Introduction:

Electronic modes of continuing medical education (eCME) can provide an appropriate and scalable way of updating the knowledge and skills of general practitioners (GPs). To optimize the adoption of eCME and develop efficient and cost-effective eCME programs, factors explaining GPs' intention to use eCME must first be elucidated.

Methods:

Using the Theory of Planned Behavior as a framework, we developed a questionnaire and administered it to GPs in seven CME seminars in Isfahan, Iran, in 2014. Three domains of GPs' intention to use eCME were measured: attitudes, perceived behavioral control, and subjective norms. We used linear and logistic regression to identify the main predictors of intention and behavior.

Results:

GPs who had high score in perceived behavioral control and a more positive attitude toward e-learning had a higher intention to adopt it for CME. In contrast, subjective norms (eg, social pressures to use eCME) were not a predictor. Attitude toward usefulness of eCME was the main predictor of being an actual eCME user.

Discussion:

Perceived behavioral control and attitude constitute the main predictors of the intention to use eCME. Establishing discussions forums and strengthening organizational support for eCME through an increased awareness among clinical superiors and CME managers would be expected to increase GPs' intention to use eCME.
Associations of Anthropometric, Behavioral, and Social Factors on Level of Body Esteem in Peripubertal Girls
Authors: Szamreta Elizabeth A. , Qin Bo , Ohman-Strickland Pamela A. , Devine Katie A. , Stapleton Jerod L. , Ferrante Jeanne M. , Bandera Elisa V.
Published: November 2016

Objective:

Lower body esteem may decrease self-esteem and lead to adverse health effects in children. This study explored the role of anthropometric, behavioral, and social factors on body esteem in peripubertal girls.

Method:

We evaluated associations of body esteem (measured by the Revised Body Esteem Scale) with body mass index (BMI), mother's BMI, puberty, physical activity, role models for appearance, and screen time among girls (ages 9 and 10) participating in the Jersey Girl Study (n = 120). Linear models were used to evaluate differences in body esteem scores.

Results:

Overweight/obese girls had a significantly lower mean body esteem score compared with underweight/healthy weight girls {14.09 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 12.53–15.27) vs. 17.17 (95% CI: 16.87–17.43)}. Girls who were physically active for at least 7 hours per week had a significantly higher body esteem score than those who were less active, after adjusting for BMI (17.00 [95% CI: 16.62–17.32] vs. 16.39 [95% CI: 15.82–16.86]). Girls whose mothers were overweight/obese, who had entered puberty, and who cited girls at school or females in the media as role models had lower body esteem scores, but differences disappeared after adjusting for girl's BMI. A trend of higher body esteem scores was found for girls whose mothers were role models.

Conclusion:

Lower BMI and higher levels of physical activity are independently associated with higher body esteem score. Having classmates or girls/women in the media as role models may detrimentally affect girls' body esteem, but having mothers as role models may have a positive effect.
The Assessment of the Risk of Unplanned Extubation in an Adult Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Aydoğan Semine , Kaya Nurten
Published: November 2016

Background:

In order to plan and implement nursing intervention to reduce the incidence rate of unplanned extubation problem in the intensive care unit (ICU), it is necessary to determine the risk factors of unplanned extubation and the patients under risk.

Aims:

This study was undertaken with the aim of evaluating the risk of unplanned extubation of endotracheal tube in adult ICU.

Design:

This was a case-control study.

Methods:

The population constituted patients hospitalized in the adult ICU during 1-year period in a university hospital. The sample from this population was composed of patients whose extubation was unplanned (30 patients) and the randomly selected patients (60 patients) who were intubated at the same time in the ICU for each patient whose extubation was unplanned. In data collection, the Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale, Glasgow Coma Scale, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II were utilized.

Findings:

According to the findings, the variables such as sex, age, mechanical ventilation period, and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II and Glasgow Coma Scale scores did not have any effect on the unplanned extubation, but variables such as internal medicine diseases and Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale did have an effect. It was also revealed that there was no extubation plan in most of the unplanned extubation group, the nurse was anticipating the unplanned extubation, the patient was intubated again, and a complication occurred.

Conclusion:

The patients who are provided inadequate sedation and analgesia and who have problems in their respiratory system are under risk of unplanned extubation.

Relevance to Clinical Practice:

In order to prevent unplanned extubation, an adequate amount of sedation and private nursing care should be provided to patients in the ICU.
Team-Based Learning Improves Staff Nurses’ Knowledge of Open- and Closed-Chest Cardiac Surgical Resuscitation
Authors: McRae Marion E. , Chan Alice , Lee Ai Jin , Hulett Renee , Coleman Bernice
Published: November 2016

Background:

There are few reports of the use of 1-session team-based learning (TBL) in hospital settings and none to teach cardiac surgical resuscitation (CSR).

Objective:

The aim of this study was to investigate whether 1-session TBL is an effective method to increase nursing knowledge of CSR.

Methods:

The participating subjects viewed a PowerPoint presentation about CSR prior to the learning session. Participants completed a 16-item individual readiness assessment test. Immediately after, participants in groups of 3 completed the same 16-item test as a team using the Immediate Feedback Assessment Technique form. Participants were asked open-ended questions about their concerns with CSR, which were analyzed with a grounded theory approach.

Results:

The sample consisted of 60 subjects (54 completing all phases). Team-based learning significantly increased scores from 36.93 (SD, 8.49) to 50.89 (SD, 5.29), t
53 = −13.05, P < .001. There was a significant increase in scores (t
46 = 2.13, P = .04) among the noncohesive groups from baseline (52.88 [SD, 3.29]) versus the cohesive groups (50.38 [SD, 4.73]). The qualitative data indicated that the subjects had worries/concerns and lack of self-confidence around CSR.

Discussion:

Team-based learning is a feasible method to use for single-session education where team building is also required. Noncohesive groups may benefit from TBL, from discussing divergent viewpoints to reach a consensus. Additional studies are needed to compare preferences for TBL with other teaching methods.
CENTRAL SEROUS CHORIORETINOPATHYLIKE MIMICKING MULTIFOCAL VITELLIFORM MACULAR DYSTROPHY: AN OCULAR SIDE EFFECT OF MITOGEN/EXTRACELLULAR SIGNAL–REGULATED KINASE INHIBITORS
Authors: Giuffrè Chiara , Miserocchi Elisabetta , Modorati Giulio , Carnevali Adriano , Marchese Alessandro , Querques Lea , Querques Giuseppe , Bandello Francesco
Published: November 2016

Purpose:

To describe a case of multiple detachments of the neurosensory retina mimicking multifocal vitelliform macular dystrophy after chemotherapy with mitogen/extracellular signal–regulated kinase inhibitor for metastatic ovarian cancer.

Methods:

Case report.

Results:

A 38-year-old woman presented to our clinic for eye examination before the initiation of chemotherapy with trametinib. One month after starting treatment, the patient complained of vision loss and metamorphopsia in both eyes. Best-corrected visual acuity decreased from 20/20 at baseline to 20/32 in both eyes, and fundus examination revealed multiple detachments of the neurosensory retina with vitelliformlike appearance, involving the central macula and the posterior pole with a circular distribution along the retinal vascular arcades. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography showed widespread thickening of the interdigitation zone, particularly in areas with and without detachments, and also some hyporeflective fluid accumulating beneath the detached retina. Mitogen/extracellular signal–regulated kinase inhibitor therapy was discontinued, and after 1 week, best-corrected visual acuity recovered to 20/20 bilaterally, with complete resolution of the serous retinal detachments and normalization of interdigitation zone.

Conclusion:

The development of a central serous chorioretinopathylike retinopathy is a relatively common secondary event of mitogen/extracellular signal–regulated kinase inhibitors therapy, and typically, it resolves after the discontinuation of the treatment. Our case is peculiar in that the lesions were bilateral, involving the central macula and the posterior pole with a circular distribution along the retinal vascular arcades and in that the interdigitation zone showed a widespread thickening at spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, mimicking multifocal vitelliform macular dystrophy.