bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the mean squared derivative cost function
Authors: Duong Manh Hong , Tran Hoang Minh
Published: April 2017

In this paper, we investigate the mean squared derivative cost functions that arise in various applications such as in motor control, biometrics and optimal transport theory. We provide qualitative properties, explicit analytical formulas and computational algorithms for the cost functions. We also perform numerical simulations to illustrate the analytical results. In addition, as a by‐product of our analysis, we obtain an explicit formula for the inverse of a Wronskian matrix that is of independent interest in linear algebra and differential equations theory. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Global nonexistence of positive initial energy solution for coupled quasilinear system
Authors: Zhang Xiaoying , Chai Shugen , Wu Jieqiong
Published: April 2017

In this paper, we consider global nonexistence of a solution for coupled quasilinear system with damping and source under Dirichlet boundary condition. We obtain a global nonexistence result of solution by using the perturbed energy method, where the initial energy is assumed to be positive. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Remark on peakon solution to the nonlinear surface wind waves equation
Authors: Jiang Bo
Published: April 2017

We prove that the existence of peakon as weak traveling wave solution and as global weak solution for the nonlinear surface wind waves equation, so as to correct the assertion that there exists no peakon solution for such an equation in the literature. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Non‐selfsimilar global solutions to a two‐dimensional system of conservation laws
Authors: Pang Yicheng , Wang Jinhuan , Zhao Yuanying
Published: April 2017

This paper considers the two‐dimensional Riemann problem for a system of conservation laws that models the polymer flooding in an oil reservoir. The initial data are two different constant states separated by a smooth curve. By virtue of a nonlinear coordinate transformation, this problem is converted into another simple one. We then analyze rigorously the expressions of elementary waves. Based on these preparations, we obtain respectively four kinds of non‐selfsimilar global solutions and their corresponding criteria. It is shown that the intermediate state between two elementary waves is no longer a constant state and that the expression of the rarefaction wave is obtained by constructing an inverse function. These are distinctive features of the non‐selfsimilar global solutions. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hostile takeover: how tumours hijack pre‐existing vascular environments to thrive
Authors: Winkler Frank
Published: April 2017

An increasing body of evidence suggests that solid tumours do not require the generation of new blood vessels, i.e. angiogenesis, to successfully grow, and to colonize normal tissue. Instead, many tumour cells make the best use of what they find: pre‐existing blood vessels of the host. In these cases, the host vasculature is incorporated by the growing tumour, resulting in a new organ consisting of malignant and non‐malignant cell types. In consequence, pre‐existing vessels are exploited by the tumour for optimal access to oxygen and nutrients. In this perspective article, the argument is made that tumour cells might gain even more: that is, access to the very special microenvironment of the perivascular niche. Here, specific cues for invasion, metastasis, survival, stem‐like features, dormancy and, potentially, also immune escape exist – for non‐malignant and malignant cells alike. The consequence of the hijacking of normal blood vessels and their perivascular niches by tumours is that antiangiogenic agents have little chance to work, and that tumour cells are better protected from the adverse effects of cytotoxic and targeted therapies. Thus, disturbing vascular hijacking could make tumours less resistant to established therapies. Concepts of how to do this are just starting to be explored. Copyright © 2017 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Functional dual hydrophilic dendrimer‐modified metal‐organic framework for the selective enrichment of N‐glycopeptides
Authors: Wang Yanan , Wang Jiaxi , Gao Mingxia , Zhang Xiangmin
Published: April 2017

Analysis of protein glycosylation remains a significant challenge due to the low abundance of glycoproteins or N‐glycopeptides. Here we have synthesized an amino‐functionalized metal‐organic framework (MOF) MIL‐101(Cr)‐NH2 whose surface is grafted with a hydrophilic dendrimer poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) for N‐glycopeptide enrichment based on the hydrophilic interactions. The selected substrate MOF MIL‐101(Cr) owns high surface area which provides nice support for peptide adsorption. In addition, the MOF displayed a good hydrophilic property after being modified with amino groups. Most importantly, the grafted hydrophilic dendrimer PAMAM was firstly applied in the postsynthetic modification of MOFs. And this functionalization route using macromolecular dendrimer opens a new perspective in MOFs design. Owing to its long dendritic chains and abundant amino groups, our material displayed dual hydrophilic property. In the enrichment of standard glycoprotein HRP digestion, the functional MOF material was shown to have low detection limit (1 fmol/μL) and good selectivity when the concentration of nonglycopeptides was 100 fold higher than the target N‐glycopeptides. All the results proved that MIL‐101(Cr)‐NH2@PAMAM has great potential in the glycoproteome analysis.
Activation of alkyl halides at the Cu0 surface in SARA ATRP: An assessment of reaction order and surface mechanisms
Authors: Augustine Kyle F. , Ribelli Thomas G. , Fantin Marco , Krys Pawel , Cong Yidan , Matyjaszewski Krzysztof
Published: April 2017

The external order in reagents for the activation of alkyl halides by Cu0 was investigated in supplemental activator and reducing agents (SARA) ATRP. Using methyl 2‐bromopropionate (MBrP) or ethyl α‐bromophenylacetate (EBPA) and tris(2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl)amine (Me6TREN) in DMSO and MeCN, it was determined that the rate of activation scaled with (S/V)0.9 in both solvents. For MBrP, the rate was first order with respect to [MBrP]0 until a saturation in the rate was observed around 33 and 110 mM in DMSO and MeCN, respectively. For EBPA, the reaction was also first order until a maximum rate was observed at 33 mM in DMSO, whereas an inverse order was observed for concentrations above 66 mM in MeCN. At saturated concentrations of MBrP, it was found that the rate increased linearly with respect to [Me6TREN]0 for all systems but became asymptotic with a maximum rate of 2 × 10−6 and 4 × 10−5 M s−1 in DMSO and MeCN, respectively. Model polymerizations in the absence of ligand showed slow reaction rates, indicating the necessity for ligand. The results allow more accurate modeling and understanding of SARA ATRP under a large range of initiator concentrations. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 3048–3057
Grafting polymerization of single‐handed helical poly(phenyl isocyanide)s on graphene oxide and their application in enantioselective separation
Authors: Xiao Yi , Wang Hui‐Qing , Zhang Hao , Jiang Zhi‐Qiang , Wang Ya‐Qi , Li Hai , Yin Jun , Zhu Yuan‐Yuan , Wu Zong‐Quan
Published: April 2017

We herein report a “grafting from” strategy to immobilize optically active helical poly(phenyl isocyanide)s onto graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets. After covalently bounding alkyne‐Pd(II) initiator onto GO nanosheets, the designed GO/polymer composites P1@GO and P1‐b‐P2@GO featuring single‐handed helical poly(phenyl isocyanide)s growing from GO nanosheets were prepared by sequential addition of the chiral and achiral isocyanide monomers. Post‐synthetic hydrolysis rendered P1‐b‐P3@GO to improve the hydrophilicity. The successful covalent bonding of poly(phenyl isocyanide)s chains onto GO nanosheets was certified by several cross evidences including scan emission microscopy, atomic force microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. Circular dichroism spectra proved that the chiral information was introduced through the grafted single‐handed helical polymer chains successfully. In addition, the resulting GO/polymer composites were explored as a chiral additive to induce enantioselective crystallization of racemic organic molecules. Preferential formation of rod‐like L‐alanine crystals was induced by composites bearing right‐handed helical poly(phenyl isocyanide)s. The enantiomeric excess value of the induced crystals reached 76%, displaying the potential in future applications. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 2092–2103
Effect of chain structure on the glass transition temperature and viscoelastic property of cis‐1,4‐polybutadiene via molecular simulation
Authors: Gao Yangyang , Wu Youping , Liu Jun , Zhang Liqun
Published: April 2017

In this work, by adopting the united atom model of cis‐1,4‐poly(butadiene) (PB), we systemically investigate the effect of the chain structure on the glass transition temperature (Tg) and the viscoelastic property of PB system. First, we analyze the atom translational mobility, bond reorientation dynamics, torsional dynamics, conformational transition rate, and dynamic heterogeneity of the PB chains with different chain structures in detail by determining the corresponding Tg. In addition, our results clearly indicate that with the decrease of the amount of the free end atoms of PB via the end‐linking method, the mobility of the PB chains quickly decreases. As a result, the Tg of the PB chains gradually increases. Depending on the chain structure and the calculation method, the Tg of the PB chains varies from 154 to 240 K. In addition, the temperature dependence of the dynamic properties has different Arrhenius behaviors above and below Tg. The calculated activation energy varies from 7.37 to 16.37 KJ/mol for different chain structures above Tg, which can be compared with those for other polymers. In addition, through the end‐linking approach the strong interaction between the PB chains improves the storage modulus G′ and the loss modulus
. Meanwhile, the immobility of the free end atoms effectively reduces the friction loss of the chains under the shear field, which is reflected by the low loss factor
. In summary, this work can further help to understand the effect of the chain structure on the dynamic properties of the PB chains. Meanwhile, it provides an effective approach to reduce the energy loss during the dynamic periodic deformation, which can cut the fuel consumption via the end‐linking method. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2017, 55, 1005–1016
Enhancement of Aluminum Reactivity to Achieve High Burn Rate for an End Burning Rocket Motor
Authors: Marothiya Gaurav , Ramakrishna P. A.
Published: April 2017

Aluminum is used in solid propellants to increase the specific impulse (Isp). It is desirable to have high propellant loading in any stage as it reduces the structural coefficient and an end burning grain is known to be the one with the highest propellant loading. As aluminum combustion is a slow process, the time available for aluminum combustion in an end burning configuration will be very small at the start of the combustion process. This demands an increase in the reactivity of the aluminum. This study is built on the fact that mechanical activation of aluminum powder with PTFE (poly‐tetra‐flouro‐ethylene) enhances the reactivity of aluminum powder. This study also deals with the use of this activated aluminum powder in conjunction with various other methods to enhance the burn rates of the solid propellant. The temperature sensitivity was also measured. Based on these results, new designs with end burning grains for the third stage of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and for the second and third stage of Pegasus launch vehicle have been proposed to increase the payload capacity. With this new design, it is seen that the payload can be increased by 12.7 % and 17.6 % for PSLV and Pegasus, respectively. The novelty of this design is that with no changes to any other hardware of the above two systems the increase in payload can be achieved.
How Zwicky already ruled out modified gravity theories without dark matter
Authors: Nieuwenhuizen Theodorus Maria
Published: April 2017

Various theories, such as MOND, MOG, Emergent Gravity and theories avoid dark matter by assuming a change in General Relativity and/or in Newton's law. Galactic rotation curves are typically described well. Here the application to galaxy clusters is considered, focussed on the good lensing and X‐ray data for A1689. As a start, the no‐dark‐matter case is confirmed to work badly: the need for dark matter starts near the cluster centre, where Newton's law is still supposed to be valid. This leads to the conundrum discovered by Zwicky, which is likely only solvable in his way, namely by assuming additional (dark) matter. Neutrinos with eV masses serve well without altering the successes in (dwarf) galaxies.
Effect of Natural β‐Glucosidase Inhibitors in Reducing Toxicity of Amygdalin in Persicae Semen
Authors: Liu Chao , Li Xia , Yang Honggai , Mao Xinhui , Wang Juan , Gao Wenyuan
Published: April 2017

Amygdalin can be decomposed into hydrocyanic acid, which is the primary source of Persicae Semen toxicity, by gut flora. Here, the inhibitory activity of β‐glucosidase for test herb extracts was first determined and compared. In turn, optimization of the ratio of substrate and inhibitor in vitro and LD50 values of extracts, serum and liver contents of amygdalin in vivo was measured. Lycii Cortex was found to be the best inhibitory activity for β‐glucosidase. The ratio of amygdalin‐to‐Lycii Cortex extract of 7.19:8.18 (mmol L−1/mg mL−1) can be relatively suitable for inhibiting β‐glucosidase activity in test in vitro reaction system. After mixed with Lycii Cortex extract, the toxicity of Persicae Semen ethanol extract in mice is significantly reduced and more amygdalin can be absorbed into the bloodstream. The study provides useful information for reducing toxicity of Persicae Semen and suggests how to better use these natural β‐glucosidase inhibitors in the utilization of glycosides and aglycones. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Birthweights and Down syndrome in neonates that were delivered after frozen‐thawed embryo transfer: The 2007‐2012 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology National Registry data in Japan
Authors: Yamatoya Kenji , Saito Kazuki , Saito Takakazu , Kang Woojin , Nakamura Akihiro , Miyado Mami , Kawano Natsuko , Miyamoto Yoshitaka , Umezawa Akihiro , Miyado Kenji , Saito Hidekazu
Published: April 2017

Aim

To evaluate the use of frozen embryos on the outcome of assisted reproductive technology (ART), a retrospective study of the Japanese Assisted Reproductive Technology Registry data during the years 2007‐2012 was conducted.

Methods

A total of 124 946 singleton neonates who reached term gestation following ART from 2007‐2012, with 80 660 achieved through frozen‐thawed embryo transfer (ET) and 44 286 being achieved through fresh ET, were analyzed for their birthweights and chromosomal abnormalities.

Results

The birthweight of the neonates from the frozen‐thawed ETs was significantly higher than that of those from the fresh ETs throughout all the study years. The frequency of Down syndrome was 0.17% for the fresh ETs and 0.13% for the frozen‐thawed ETs in the period 2007‐2012. This study showed that frozen‐thawed ETs result in a constant increase of the average birthweight between 37 and 41 weeks gestational age and lower frequencies of Down syndrome.

Conclusion

Frozen‐thawed ETs were comparable to the fresh ET method, with the exceptions of higher birthweights and a lower frequency of Down syndrome in the neonates that were born from frozen‐thawed ET. The increase in birthweights was not proportional to the gestational ages. This cannot be explained with any well‐known mechanism. The frequency of chromosomal abnormalities needs detailed data for analysis.
Correcting covariate‐dependent measurement error with non‐zero mean
Authors: Parveen Nabila , Moodie Erica , Brenner Bluma
Published: April 2017

There are many settings in which the distribution of error in a mismeasured covariate varies with the value of another covariate. Take, for example, the case of HIV phylogenetic cluster size, large values of which are an indication of rapid HIV transmission. Researchers wish to find behavioral correlates of HIV phylogenetic cluster size; however, the distribution of its measurement error depends on the correctly measured variable, HIV status, and does not have a mean of zero. Further, it is not feasible to obtain validation data or repeated measurements. We propose an extension of simulation–extrapolation, an estimation technique for bias reduction in the presence of measurement error that does not require validation data and can accommodate errors whose distribution depends on other, error‐free covariates. The proposed extension performs well in simulation, typically exhibiting less bias and variability than either regression calibration or multiple imputation for measurement error. We apply the proposed method to data from the province of Quebec in Canada to examine the association between HIV phylogenetic cluster size and the number of reported sex partners. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Irritable bowel syndrome: enigmatic for doctors, problematic for patients
Authors: Farmer Adam , Ruffle James
Published: April 2017

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastro‐intestinal disorder, characterised by chronic abdominal pain and an alteration in bowel habit. The symptoms of IBS can be debilitating and associated with a reduction in quality of life. Although in Europe IBS more often presents in women, men also suffer and this potential diagnosis should not be overlooked.
Antibacterial Activity of Cotton Fabrics Treated With Poly (Vinyl Alcohol)/ZnO Nanocomposites, Photocatalyzed by UV Irradiation
Authors: Hassan Mahmoud S. , Ali Hussein E. , Ali Nisreen M.
Published: April 2017

Cotton fabrics with antimicrobial properties were prepared by treatment with aqueous solutions of poly vinyl alcohol/zinc oxide (PVA/ZnO) nanocomposites and subsequently exposed to UV radiation. The ZnO nanoparticles, PVA/ZnO nanocomposite films, and treated cotton fabrics were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. The antibacterial finishing of the treated cotton fabrics was evaluated toward gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 23:E34–E39, 2017. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Trust and Perceptions of Physicians’ Nonverbal Behavior Among Women with Immigrant Backgrounds
Authors: Hillen Marij A. , de Haes Hanneke C. J. M. , Verdam Mathilde G. E. , Smets Ellen M. A.
Published: April 2017

Previous findings suggest immigrant patients have lower trust in their physicians, and perceive nonverbal communication differently compared to non-immigrant patients. We tested discrepancies in trust and the impact of non-verbal behavior between immigrants and non-immigrants in The Netherlands. Nonverbal communication of an oncologist was systematically varied in an experimental video vignettes design. Breast cancer patients (n = 34) and healthy women (n = 34) viewed one of eight video versions and evaluated trust and perceived friendliness of the oncologist. In a matched control design, women with immigrant and non-immigrant backgrounds were paired. Immigrant women reported stronger trust. Nonverbal communication by the oncologist did not influence trust differently for immigrants compared to for non-immigrants. However, smiling strongly enhanced perceived friendliness for non-immigrants, but not for immigrants. Immigrant patients’ strong trust levels may be formed a priori, instead of based on physicians’ communication. Physicians may need to make extra efforts to optimize their communication.
Searching for a listed infrastructure asset class using mean–variance spanning
Authors: Blanc-Brude Frédéric , Whittaker Timothy , Wilde Simon
Published: April 2017

This study examines the portfolio-diversification benefits of listed infrastructure stocks. We employ three different definitions of listed infrastructure and tests of mean–variance spanning. The evidence shows that viewing infrastructure as an asset class is misguided. We employ different schemes of infrastructure asset selection (both traditional asset classes and factor exposures) and discover that they do not provide portfolio-diversification benefits to existing asset allocation choices. We also find that defining and selecting infrastructure investments by business model as opposed to industrial sectors can reveal a very different investment profile, albeit one that improves the mean–variance efficient frontier since the global financial crisis. This study provides new insights into defining and benchmarking infrastructure equity investments in general, as well as into the extent to which public markets can be used to proxy the risk-adjusted performance of privately held infrastructure investments.
Breast cancer and Flammer syndrome: any symptoms in common for prediction, prevention and personalised medical approach?
Authors: Zubor Pavol , Gondova Alexandra , Polivka Jiri , Kasajova Petra , Konieczka Katarzyna , Danko Jan , Golubnitschaja Olga
Published: April 2017

An epidemic scale of the breast cancer (BC) prevalence is actually recognised as the reality of the early twenty-first century. Particularly alarming is that the sporadic BC (about 90% of all patients) creates currently unpredictable subpopulations in terms of disease predisposition, development and progression. Despite broad discussions run since years in BC area, no any plausible approach has been suggested so far to get the overall situation better controlled in the populations. Here, we present highly innovative concepts considering investigation of specific syndromes and symptoms underestimated till now in relationship with BC predisposition and development. Consequently, the purpose of our pilot project was to evaluate the prevalence of Flammer Syndrome (FS) in BC patient cohort. The results achieved here support the main hypothesis of the project clearly demonstrating the tendency of BC patients to the increased prevalence of FS symptoms compared to the disease-free individuals. Our study strongly indicates the relevance of FS symptoms for BC pathology such as feeling inadequately cold, deficient thermoregulation, altered sensitivity to different stimuli, potential dehydration, altered sleep patterns, tendency towards headache, migraine attacks and dizziness. Moreover, the symptoms’ appearance is specifically linked to the individual BC subtypes. Potential mechanisms interconnecting FS with BC pathology are discussed.
The long-term association of OCD and depression and its moderators: A four-year follow up study in a large clinical sample
Authors: Tibi L. , van Oppen P. , van Balkom A.J.L.M. , Eikelenboom M. , Rickelt J. , Schruers K.R.J. , Anholt G.E.
Published: April 2017

Background:

Depression is the most common comorbidity in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). However, the mechanisms of depressive comorbidity in OCD are poorly understood. We assessed the directionality and moderators of the OCD-depression association over time in a large, prospective clinical sample of OCD patients.

Methods:

Data were drawn from 382 OCD patients participating at the Netherlands Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Association (NOCDA) study. Cross-lagged, structural equation modeling analyses were used to assess the temporal association between OCD and depressive symptoms. Assessments were conducted at baseline, two-year and four-year follow up. Cognitive and interpersonal moderators of the prospective association between OCD and depressive symptoms were tested.

Results:

Cross-lagged analyses demonstrated that OCD predicts depressive symptoms at two-year follow up and not vice a versa. This relationship disappeared at four-year follow up. Secure attachment style moderated the prospective association between OCD and depression.

Conclusions:

Depressive comorbidity in OCD might constitute a functional consequence of the incapacitating OCD symptoms. Both OCD and depression symptoms demonstrated strong stability effects between two-year and four-year follow up, which may explain the lack of association between them in that period. Among OCD patients, secure attachment represents a buffer against future depressive symptoms.
Animal Vocal Communication
Authors: Morton Eugene S.
Published: April 2017

How do animals communicate using sounds? How did animal vocal communication arise and evolve? Exploring a new way to conceptualize animal communication, this new edition moves beyond an earlier emphasis on the role of senders in managing receiver behaviour, to examine how receivers' responses influence signalling. It demonstrates the importance of the perceiver role in driving the evolution of communication, for instance in mimicry, and thus shifts the emphasis from a linguistic to a form/function approach to communication. Covering a wide range of animals from frogs to humans, this new edition includes new sections on human prosodic elements in speech, the vocal origins of smiles and laughter and deliberately irritating sounds and is ideal for researchers and students of animal behaviour and in fields such as sensory biology, neuroscience and evolutionary biology.
The Meaning of the Wave Function
Authors: Gao Shan
Published: April 2017

At the heart of quantum mechanics lies the wave function, a powerful but mysterious mathematical object which has been a hot topic of debate from its earliest stages. Covering much of the recent debate and providing a comprehensive and critical review of competing approaches, this ambitious text provides new, decisive proof of the reality of the wave function. Aiming to make sense of the wave function in quantum mechanics and to find the ontological content of the theory, this book explores new ontological interpretations of the wave function in terms of random discontinuous motion of particles. Finally, the book investigates whether the suggested quantum ontology is complete in solving the measurement problem and if it should be revised in the relativistic domain. A timely addition to the literature on the foundations of quantum mechanics, this book is of value to students and researchers with an interest in the philosophy of physics.
Design and Fabrication of Anisotropic Conductive Film for Application of Probe Card
Authors: Hsu W. H. , Chou M. C. , Tsai H. Y.
Published: April 2017

Prior to integrated circuit (IC) packaging, die performance must be verified using probe cards to screen for defective products. With the decrease in IC line width, the dimensions of the pads used for performance verification and the spacing between adjacent pads have also decreased. However, when the pad pitch is reduced to less than 30 μm, commonly used probe cards will face manufacturing problems in miniaturization. To resolve probe card manufacturing problems caused by the miniaturization of IC components, the use of an anisotropic conductive film (ACF) in probe cards was proposed in this study. Theoretical calculations and experimental testing of this probe structure were conducted to demonstrate the feasibility of this concept.

In theoretical calculations, composite material and buckling theory were utilized to evaluate the buckling behavior of the ACF. In experimental testing, photolithography and electroplating techniques were used to control the line width and spacing intervals of the micron-scale metal wires in the ACF. After the ACF was fabricated, the mechanical properties of the ACF during wafer testing were assessed. Theoretical analyses and experimental testing verified that ACFs can potentially be applied to the performance verification of IC products. In the ACF structure, multiple probes came into contact with each pad. Therefore, ACFs can potentially be applied to the performance verification of IC components with pad diameters of less than 20 μm. The results of this study directly benefit the miniaturization of ICs.
Norovirus epidemiology in South African children <5 years hospitalised for diarrhoeal illness between 2009 and 2013
Authors: PAGE N. A. , GROOME M. J. , NADAN S. , NETSHIKWETA R. , KEDDY K. H. , POONSAMY B. , MOYES J. , WALAZA S. , KAHN K. , MADHI S. A. , TAYLOR M. B. , MANS J. , COHEN C.
Published: April 2017

Public health interest in norovirus (NoV) has increased in recent years following improved diagnostics, global burden estimates and the development of NoV vaccine candidates. This study aimed to describe the detection rate, clinical characteristics and environmental features associated with NoV detection in hospitalized children <5 years with diarrhoea in South Africa (SA). Between 2009 and 2013, prospective diarrhoeal surveillance was conducted at four sites in SA. Stool specimens were collected and screened for NoVs and other enteric pathogens using molecular and serological assays. Epidemiological and clinical data were compared in patients with or without detection of NoV. The study detected NoV in 15% (452/3103) of hospitalized children <5 years with diarrhoea with the majority of disease in children <2 years (92%; 417/452). NoV-positive children were more likely to present with diarrhoea and vomiting (odds ratio (OR) 1·3; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1·1–1·7; P = 0·011) with none-to-mild dehydration (adjusted OR 0·5; 95% CI 0·3–0·7) compared with NoV-negative children. Amongst children testing NoV positive, HIV-infected children were more likely to have prolonged hospitalization and increased mortality compared with HIV-uninfected children. Continued surveillance will be important to consider the epidemic trends and estimate the burden and risk of NoV infection in SA.
Recognition and liquid authority
Authors: Sending Ole Jacob
Published: April 2017

To analyze how authority emerges, become institutionalized, and may be transformed, we are best served with a concept of authority that highlights its dynamic features, and that captures the multiplicity of actors involved in producing and sustaining it. Extant accounts tend to operate with a view of ‘solid’ authority, but such a concept of authority is mainly descriptive, not explanatory. A turn to the liquid features of authority is not only better suited to account for global authority, but also for those pockets of ‘solid’ authority that we can find in the global or international sphere. I develop an account of authority that draws selectively from some of Bourdieu’s core concepts and highlight the inherently relational aspect of authority. Authority, I submit, is based on actors’ search for recognition. Such a perspective is better able to account for how authority emerges and may stabilize as ‘solid,’ and also be transformed over time. I draw on examples from the World Health Organization and the UN Security Council to illustrate the argument.
A Mountain Range's History Preserved in Ocean Sediments
Authors: Cook Terri
Published: April 2017

Fission track dating core samples from the Gulf of Alaska demonstrates that offshore sediments can be used to reconstruct a mountain range's changing exhumation patterns.
Eight Ways to Get Ready for the March for Science
Authors: McEntee Chris
Published: April 2017

From sending RSVPs to quickly ordering an event T-shirt to finding out about our premarch gathering, AGU members and their families and friends can take steps now to prepare for the 22 April march.
In vitro tracking and intracellular protein distribution in immunology
Authors: Zibaei Kajal , Russell Sarah M
Published: April 2017

New imaging techniques have enabled major advances in understanding how immune reactions are initiated, coordinated and controlled. Imaging methods, which were previously mostly descriptive and supplementary to more quantitative approaches, have now reached sufficient precision and throughput that they are becoming integral to almost all aspects of immunology research. Imaging methodologies that increase the resolution and sensitivity of detection, alongside an ever‐expanding range of fluorescent reporters of molecular and cellular activity, and vastly improved analysis methods, have all facilitated this transformation. In this review, we will discuss how advances in imaging are changing the way we view immune activation and control using T cells as the model immune system. We will describe how imaging has transformed our knowledge of molecular and signalling events in T‐cell activation, and the impact of these molecular events on the behaviour of T cells.
Light-assisted delithiation of lithium iron phosphate nanocrystals towards photo-rechargeable lithium ion batteries
Authors: Paolella Andrea , Faure Cyril , Bertoni Giovanni , Marras Sergio , Guerfi Abdelbast , Darwiche Ali , Hovington Pierre , Commarieu Basile , Wang Zhuoran , Prato Mirko , Colombo Massimo , Monaco Simone , Zhu Wen , Feng Zimin , Vijh Ashok , George Chandramohan , Demopoulos George P. , Armand Michel , Zaghib Karim
Published: April 2017

Recently, intensive efforts are dedicated to convert and store the solar energy in a single device. Herein, dye-synthesized solar cell technology is combined with lithium-ion materials to investigate light-assisted battery charging. In particular we report the direct photo-oxidation of lithium iron phosphate nanocrystals in the presence of a dye as a hybrid photo-cathode in a two-electrode system, with lithium metal as anode and lithium hexafluorophosphate in carbonate-based electrolyte; a configuration corresponding to lithium ion battery charging. Dye-sensitization generates electron–hole pairs with the holes aiding the delithiation of lithium iron phosphate at the cathode and electrons utilized in the formation of a solid electrolyte interface at the anode via oxygen reduction. Lithium iron phosphate acts effectively as a reversible redox agent for the regeneration of the dye. Our findings provide possibilities in advancing the design principles for photo-rechargeable lithium ion batteries.
Structural insights into POT1-TPP1 interaction and POT1 C-terminal mutations in human cancer
Authors: Chen Cong , Gu Peili , Wu Jian , Chen Xianyun , Niu Shuangshuang , Sun Hong , Wu Lijie , Li Na , Peng Junhui , Shi Shaohua , Fan Cuiying , Huang Min , Wong Catherine C. L. , Gong Qingguo , Kumar-Sinha Chandan , Zhang Rongguang , Pusztai Lajos , Rai Rekha , Chang Sandy , Lei Ming
Published: April 2017

Mammalian shelterin proteins POT1 and TPP1 form a stable heterodimer that protects chromosome ends and regulates telomerase-mediated telomere extension. However, how POT1 interacts with TPP1 remains unknown. Here we present the crystal structure of the C-terminal portion of human POT1 (POT1C) complexed with the POT1-binding motif of TPP1. The structure shows that POT1C contains two domains, a third OB fold and a Holliday junction resolvase-like domain. Both domains are essential for binding to TPP1. Notably, unlike the heart-shaped structure of ciliated protozoan Oxytricha nova TEBPα–β complex, POT1–TPP1 adopts an elongated V-shaped conformation. In addition, we identify several missense mutations in human cancers that disrupt the POT1C–TPP1 interaction, resulting in POT1 instability. POT1C mutants that bind TPP1 localize to telomeres but fail to repress a DNA damage response and inappropriate repair by A-NHEJ. Our results reveal that POT1 C terminus is essential to prevent initiation of genome instability permissive for tumorigenesis.
Proximate effects of temperature versus evolved intrinsic constraints for embryonic development times among temperate and tropical songbirds
Authors: Ton Riccardo , Martin Thomas E.
Published: April 2017

The relative importance of intrinsic constraints imposed by evolved physiological trade-offs versus the proximate effects of temperature for interspecific variation in embryonic development time remains unclear. Understanding this distinction is important because slow development due to evolved trade-offs can yield phenotypic benefits, whereas slow development from low temperature can yield costs. We experimentally increased embryonic temperature in free-living tropical and north temperate songbird species to test these alternatives. Warmer temperatures consistently shortened development time without costs to embryo mass or metabolism. However, proximate effects of temperature played an increasingly stronger role than intrinsic constraints for development time among species with colder natural incubation temperatures. Long development times of tropical birds have been thought to primarily reflect evolved physiological trade-offs that facilitate their greater longevity. In contrast, our results indicate a much stronger role of temperature in embryonic development time than currently thought.
Global gene expression profiling of healthy human brain and its application in studying neurological disorders
Authors: Negi Simarjeet K. , Guda Chittibabu
Published: April 2017

Brain function is governed by precise regulation of gene expression across its anatomically distinct structures; however, the expression patterns of genes across hundreds of brain structures are not clearly understood. Here, we describe a gene expression model, which is representative of the healthy human brain transcriptome by using data from the Allen Brain Atlas. Our in-depth gene expression profiling revealed that 84% of genes are expressed in at least one of the 190 brain structures studied. Hierarchical clustering based on gene expression profiles delineated brain regions into structurally tiered spatial groups and we observed striking enrichment for region-specific processes. Further, weighted co-expression network analysis identified 19 robust modules of highly correlated genes enriched with functional associations for neurogenesis, dopamine signaling, immune regulation and behavior. Also, structural distribution maps of major neurotransmission systems in the brain were generated. Finally, we developed a supervised classification model, which achieved 84% and 81% accuracies for predicting autism- and Parkinson’s-implicated genes, respectively, using our expression model as a baseline. This study represents the first use of global gene expression profiling from healthy human brain to develop a disease gene prediction model and this generic methodology can be applied to study any neurological disorder.
Therapeutic targeting using tumor specific peptides inhibits long non-coding RNA HOTAIR activity in ovarian and breast cancer
Authors: Özeş Ali R. , Wang Yinu , Zong Xingyue , Fang Fang , Pilrose Jay , Nephew Kenneth P.
Published: April 2017

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play key roles in human diseases, including cancer. Functional studies of the lncRNA HOTAIR (HOX transcript antisense RNA) provide compelling evidence for therapeutic targeting of HOTAIR in cancer, but targeting lncRNAs in vivo has proven to be difficult. In the current study, we describe a peptide nucleic acids (PNA)-based approach to block the ability of HOTAIR to interact with EZH2 and subsequently inhibit HOTAIR-EZH2 activity and resensitize resistant ovarian tumors to platinum. Treatment of HOTAIR-overexpressing ovarian and breast cancer cell lines with PNAs decreased invasion and increased chemotherapy sensitivity. Furthermore, the mechanism of action correlated with reduced nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) activation and decreased expression of NF-κB target genes matrix metalloprotease 9 and interleukin 6. To deliver the anti-lncRNA to the acidic (pH approximately 6) tumor microenvironment, PNAs were conjugated to pH-low insertion peptide (pHLIP). Treatment of mice harboring platinum-resistant ovarian tumor xenografts with pHLIP-PNA constructs suppressed HOTAIR activity, reduced tumor formation and improved survival. This first report on pHLIP-PNA lncRNA targeting solid tumors in vivo suggests a novel cancer therapeutic approach.
Wideband, wide-angle coding phase gradient metasurfaces based on Pancharatnam-Berry phase
Authors: Zheng Qiqi , Li Yongfeng , Zhang Jieqiu , Ma Hua , Wang Jiafu , Pang Yongqiang , Han Yajuan , Sui Sai , Shen Yang , Chen Hongya , Qu Shaobo
Published: April 2017

A new concept of the coding phase gradient metasurface (CPGM) is proposed, which is constructed using the phase gradient metasurface as the coding elements. Different from the previous coding metasurface (CM), both the coding sequences and gradient phases in the coding elements are designed to manipulate the electromagnetic (EM) wave for the CPGMs, and thus the manipulation will be more flexible. As an example, wide-band, wide-angle CPGMs with zero and non-zero phase gradient based on Pancharatnam-Berry (PB) phase are achieved using the co-polarization reflection unit cells under circularly polarized (CP) wave incidence. Both theoretically calculated and numerically simulated scattering patterns of the designed CPGMs demonstrate the expected manipulations. Additionally, two kinds of random CPGMs with different phase gradients are designed for radar cross section (RCS) reduction, and the measured RCS reveals a good accordance with the simulation.
Capturing RNA Folding Free Energy with Coarse-Grained Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Bell David R. , Cheng Sara Y. , Salazar Heber , Ren Pengyu
Published: April 2017

We introduce a coarse-grained RNA model for molecular dynamics simulations, RACER (RnA CoarsE-gRained). RACER achieves accurate native structure prediction for a number of RNAs (average RMSD of 2.93 Å) and the sequence-specific variation of free energy is in excellent agreement with experimentally measured stabilities (R2 = 0.93). Using RACER, we identified hydrogen-bonding (or base pairing), base stacking, and electrostatic interactions as essential driving forces for RNA folding. Also, we found that separating pairing vs. stacking interactions allowed RACER to distinguish folded vs. unfolded states. In RACER, base pairing and stacking interactions each provide an approximate stability of 3–4 kcal/mol for an A-form helix. RACER was developed based on PDB structural statistics and experimental thermodynamic data. In contrast with previous work, RACER implements a novel effective vdW potential energy function, which led us to re-parameterize hydrogen bond and electrostatic potential energy functions. Further, RACER is validated and optimized using a simulated annealing protocol to generate potential energy vs. RMSD landscapes. Finally, RACER is tested using extensive equilibrium pulling simulations (0.86 ms total) on eleven RNA sequences (hairpins and duplexes).
Characterization of a Basidiomycota hydrophobin reveals the structural basis for a high-similarity Class I subdivision
Authors: Gandier Julie-Anne , Langelaan David N. , Won Amy , O’Donnell Kylie , Grondin Julie L. , Spencer Holly L. , Wong Philip , Tillier Elisabeth , Yip Christopher , Smith Steven P. , Master Emma R.
Published: April 2017

Class I hydrophobins are functional amyloids secreted by fungi. They self-assemble into organized films at interfaces producing structures that include cellular adhesion points and hydrophobic coatings. Here, we present the first structure and solution properties of a unique Class I protein sequence of Basidiomycota origin: the Schizophyllum commune hydrophobin SC16 (hyd1). While the core β-barrel structure and disulphide bridging characteristic of the hydrophobin family are conserved, its surface properties and secondary structure elements are reminiscent of both Class I and II hydrophobins. Sequence analyses of hydrophobins from 215 fungal species suggest this structure is largely applicable to a high-identity Basidiomycota Class I subdivision (IB). To validate this prediction, structural analysis of a comparatively distinct Class IB sequence from a different fungal order, namely the Phanerochaete carnosa PcaHyd1, indicates secondary structure properties similar to that of SC16. Together, these results form an experimental basis for a high-identity Class I subdivision and contribute to our understanding of functional amyloid formation.
Knockdown of toll-like receptor 4 signaling pathways ameliorate bone graft rejection in a mouse model of allograft transplantation
Authors: Hsieh Jeng-Long , Shen Po-Chuan , Wu Po-Ting , Jou I-Ming , Wu Chao-Liang , Shiau Ai-Li , Wang Chrong-Reen , Chong Hao-Earn , Chuang Shu-Han , Peng Jia-Shiou , Chen Shih-Yao
Published: April 2017

Non-union occurring in structural bone grafting is a major problem in allograft transplantation because of impaired interaction between the host and graft tissue. Activated toll-like receptor (TLR) induces inflammatory cytokines and chemokines and triggers cell-mediated immune responses. The TLR-mediated signal pathway is important for mediating allograft rejection. We evaluated the effects of local knockdown of the TLR4 signaling pathway in a mouse segmental femoral graft model. Allografts were coated with freeze-dried lentiviral vectors that encoded TLR4 and myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MyD88) short-hairpin RNA (shRNA), which were individually transplanted into the mice. They were assessed morphologically, radiographically, and histologically for tissue remodeling. Union occurred in autografted but not in allografted mice at the graft and host junctions after 4 weeks. TLR4 and MyD88 expression was up-regulated in allografted mice. TLR4 and MyD88 shRNAs inhibited TLR4 and MyD88 expression, which led to better union in the grafted sites. More regulatory T-cells in the draining lymph nodes suggested inflammation suppression. Local inhibition of TLR4 and MyD88 might reduce immune responses and ameliorate allograft rejection.
Long noncoding RNA LINC00305 promotes inflammation by activating the AHRR-NF-κB pathway in human monocytes
Authors: Zhang Dan-Dan , Wang Wen-Tian , Xiong Jian , Xie Xue-Min , Cui Shen-Shen , Zhao Zhi-Guo , Li Mulin Jun , Zhang Zhu-Qin , Hao De-Long , Zhao Xiang , Li Yong-Jun , Wang Junwen , Chen Hou-Zao , Lv Xiang , Liu De-Pei
Published: April 2017

Accumulating data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have provided a collection of novel candidate genes associated with complex diseases, such as atherosclerosis. We identified an atherosclerosis-associated single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the intron of the long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) LINC00305 by searching the GWAS database. Although the function of LINC00305 is unknown, we found that LINC00305 expression is enriched in atherosclerotic plaques and monocytes. Overexpression of LINC00305 promoted the expression of inflammation-associated genes in THP-1 cells and reduced the expression of contractile markers in co-cultured human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMCs). We showed that overexpression of LINC00305 activated nuclear factor-kappa beta (NF-κB) and that inhibition of NF-κB abolished LINC00305-mediated activation of cytokine expression. Mechanistically, LINC00305 interacted with lipocalin-1 interacting membrane receptor (LIMR), enhanced the interaction of LIMR and aryl-hydrocarbon receptor repressor (AHRR), and promoted protein expression as well as nuclear localization of AHRR. Moreover, LINC00305 activated NF-κB exclusively in the presence of LIMR and AHRR. In light of these findings, we propose that LINC00305 promotes monocyte inflammation by facilitating LIMR and AHRR cooperation and the AHRR activation, which eventually activates NF-κB, thereby inducing HASMC phenotype switching.