bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methodology for practical seismic assessment of unreinforced masonry buildings with historical value
Authors: Pardalopoulos Stylianos I. , Pantazopoulou Stavroula J.
Published: June 2017

Historical constructions are part of the world heritage, and their survival is an important priority. Comprising mostly unreinforced, load‐bearing masonry, heritage buildings may date anywhere from antiquity to the 19th and early 20th century. Being exposed to the elements over the years, they are in various states of disrepair and material degradation. Based on postearthquake reconnaissance reports, these structures occasionally behave rather poorly, even in moderate seismic events, undergoing catastrophic damage and collapse, whereas retrofitting is governed by international conventions regarding noninvasiveness and reversibility of the intervention. The complexity of their structural systems (continuous structural components, lack of diaphragm action, material brittleness, and variability) challenges the established methods of condition assessment of preretrofitted and postretrofitted heritage constructions. The most advanced state of the art in materials and analysis tools is required, far more complex than with conventional buildings. Thus, an assessment procedure specifically geared to this class of structures is urgently needed, in order to assist engineers in this endeavor. The objective of this paper is the development of a performance‐based assessment framework that is palatable to practitioners and quite accurate in seismic assessment of unreinforced masonry buildings with no diaphragm action. The underlying theoretical background of the method is illustrated with reference to first principles: global demand is obtained from the design earthquake scenario for the region, using empirical estimates for the prevailing translational period of the system; deformation demands are localized using an approximation to the translational 3‐D shape of lateral response, estimated using a uniform gravitational field in the direction of action of the earthquake; acceptance criteria are specified in terms of relative drift ratios, referring to the in‐plane and the out‐of‐plane action of the masonry piers. The quantitative accuracy of the introduced procedure is evaluated through comparison with detailed time‐history dynamic analysis results, using a real life example case study. Qualitative relevance of the results is evaluated through comparison of the location and extent of anticipated damage estimated from the proposed assessment procedure, with reported records of the building damages that occurred during a significant past earthquake event.
Acetyl‐CoA production from pyruvate is not necessary for preservation of myelin
Authors: Della‐Flora Nunes Gustavo , Mueller Lauren , Silvestri Nicholas , Patel Mulchand S. , Wrabetz Lawrence , Feltri M. Laura , Poitelon Yannick
Published: June 2017

Oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells not only form myelin in the central and peripheral nervous system, but also provide metabolic and trophic support to the axons they ensheathe. Acetyl‐CoA is potentially a key molecule in Schwann cells and oligodendrocytes because it is at the crossroads of cellular lipid biosynthesis and energy generation. The main route for acetyl‐CoA production is the oxidation of pyruvate by the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC). PDC deficiency in humans results in neurodegeneration and developmental impairments in both white and gray matter structures. To address the importance of PDC in myelinating glia, we deleted Pdha1 gene specifically in oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells. Surprisingly, sciatic and optic nerve morphology and the motor performance of Pdha1f/Y; CnpCre/+ mice are undistinguishable from those of controls at 1 month of age. In addition, myelin is stably maintained for at least 10 months. However, Pdha1f/Y; CnpCre/+ mice showed reduced fiber density and signs of axonal degeneration in both sciatic and optic nerves from 6 months of age. In contrast, 10 month‐old mice bearing a floxed Pdha1 gene with either P0‐Cre (expressed only by Schwann cells) or NG2‐CreER (expressed in oligodendrocyte precursor cells) do not show any sign of axonal pathology or alterations in myelin structure or thickness. This indicates that the axonopathy is specific to the Pdha1f/Y; CnpCre/+ mice. Taken together, these results suggest that acetyl‐CoA derived from pyruvate is not necessary for myelin maintenance and, thus, myelin‐forming cells are not likely to contribute to the pathophysiology of PDC deficiency.
Idiosyncratic drug‐induced liver injury: A short review
Authors: Yamashita Yo‐ichi , Imai Katsunori , Mima Kosuke , Nakagawa Shigeki , Hashimoto Daisuke , Chikamoto Akira , Baba Hideo
Published: June 2017

Idiosyncratic drug‐induced liver injury (iDILI) is a rare adverse drug reaction that occasionally leads to acute liver failure or even death. An aging population that uses more drugs, a constant influx of newly developed drugs, and a growing risk from herbal and dietary supplements of uncertain quality can lead to an increase in iDILI. Antimicrobials, central nervous system agents, and herbal and dietary supplements are the most common causes of iDILI in developed countries. iDILI is still a diagnosis of exclusion, and thus careful history taking and thorough work‐ups for competing etiologies, such as acute viral hepatitis, autoimmune hepatitis, and others, are essential. The pathogenesis of iDILI is not clear and includes a mix of host reactions, drug metabolites, and environmental factors. Immediate cessation of the suspected offending drug is key to preventing or minimizing progressive damage. No definitive therapies for iDILI are available, and the treatments remain largely supportive. (Hepatology Communications 2017;1:494–500)
Functional interrelationship between TFII‐I and E2F transcription factors at specific cell cycle gene loci
Authors: Shen Yong , Nar Rukiye , Fan Alex X. , Aryan Mahmoud , Hossain Mir A. , Gurumurthy Aishwarya , Wassel Paul C. , Tang Ming , Lu Jianrong , Strouboulis John , Bungert Jörg
Published: June 2017

Transcription factor TFII‐I is a multifunctional protein implicated in the regulation of cell cycle and stress‐response genes. Previous studies have shown that a subset of TFII‐I associated genomic sites contained DNA‐binding motifs for E2F family transcription factors. We analyzed the co‐association of TFII‐I and E2Fs in more detail using bioinformatics, chromatin immunoprecipitation, and co‐immunoprecipitation experiments. The data show that TFII‐I interacts with E2F transcription factors. Furthermore, TFII‐I, E2F4, and E2F6 interact with DNA‐regulatory elements of several genes implicated in the regulation of the cell cycle, including DNMT1, HDAC1, CDKN1C, and CDC27. Inhibition of TFII‐I expression led to a decrease in gene expression and in the association of E2F4 and E2F6 with these gene loci in human erythroleukemia K562 cells. Finally, TFII‐I deficiency reduced the proliferation of K562 cells and increased the sensitivity toward doxorubicin toxicity. The results uncover novel interactions between TFII‐I and E2Fs and suggest that TFII‐I mediates E2F function at specific cell cycle genes.
A review on symptoms, treatments protocols, and proteomic profile in sulfur mustard‐exposed victims
Authors: Panahi Yunes , Abdolghaffari Amir H. , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: June 2017

Sulfur mustard (SM) as an alkylating and vesicating agent was used for 100 years as a chemical weapon. SM as bi‐functional mustard can attacks and alkylates lots of biomolecules. Different cellular mechanism and molecular pathways are responsible for damages to body tissues. Such as DNA damages, oxidative stress, Apoptosis, and inflammation. Sulfur mustard penetrated body organs and induces long term eye, skin, lung, gastrointestinal, urogenital damages and can cause carcinogenic and mutagenic consequences. Currently there is no definitive treatment protocol for SM exposed patients. The goal of treatment is relieving the symptoms with fast healing rate and retrieval of damaged tissues to normal function and appearance in short period of time. Evaluation of proteomics profile in SM‐exposed victims has been performed in animal model and human patients. These studies revealed that different protein were involved in the patients with SM damages to skin and lungs. Apolipoprotein A1, type I cytokeratins K14, K16 and K17, S100 calcium‐binding protein A8, α1 haptoglobin isoforms, Amyloid A1, albumin, haptoglobin, and keratin isoforms, immunoglobulin kappa chain are defined expressed proteins in the damaged tissues.
LncRNA‐PVT1 promotes pancreatic cancer cells proliferation and migration through acting as a molecular sponge to regulate miR‐448
Authors: Zhao Liang , Kong Hongru , Sun Hongwei , Chen Zongjing , Chen Bicheng , Zhou Mengtao
Published: June 2017

The identification and characterization of long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in diverse biological process has currently developed rapidly. LncRNA‐PVT1, located adjacent to the MYC locus on chromosomal region 8q24, has been reported to be associated with many biological processes. However, the function and mechanism of PVT1 in pancreatic carcinoma (PC) is poorly understood. In this present study, we first measured the level of PVT1 in the PC cell lines and tissues by quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR), and then employed loss‐of‐function and gain‐of‐function approaches to explore the association between PVT1 expression levels and PC cell proliferation/migration ability. Furthermore, bioinformatics analysis was utilized to show that PVT1 contains binding site for miR‐448 and an inverse correlation between PVT1 and miR‐448 was obtained in PC specimens. Additionally, dual luciferase reporter assay, RNA‐binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP) and applied biotin‐avidin pulldown system were applied to further confirm that PVT1 directly bind with microRNA binding site harboring in the PVT1 sequence. Then, SERBP1 was identified as a target of miR‐448 according to the gene expression array analysis of PC clinical samples. Together, we revealed that PVT1 functions as an endogenous “sponge” by competing for miR‐448 binding to regulate the miRNA target SERBP1 and, therefore, promotes the proliferation and migration of PC cells.
Reactive plasticization of poly(lactide) with epoxy functionalized cardanol
Authors: Mihai Iulia , Hassouna Fatima , Fouquet Thierry , Laachachi Abdelghani , Raquez Jean‐Marie , Ibn El Ahrach Hicham , Dubois Philippe
Published: June 2017

New biobased plasticizers made of di‐functional glycidyl ether epoxy cardanol (ECard) were investigated to improve the ductility of renewable poly(lactide) (PLA). Compatibility between PLA and ECard was achieved out through in situ reactive grafting strategy catalyzed with Ethyltriphenyl phosphonium bromide (ETPB) using twin‐screw extruder. In absence of catalyst, ECard forms domain ill‐dispersed in the PLA matrix due to the high incompatibility between both phases. When ETPB is added as catalyst domain size distribution of the plasticizer decreased, indicating an enhanced compatibility due to the reactive grafting of a fraction of ECard plasticizer onto PLA backbone. Although all plasticized PLA specimens exhibit lower glass transition temperature, lower elastic/tensile modulus, lower yield stress, and higher strain at break, the reactive blend containing the lowest amount of catalyst, that is, 0.02 phr, exhibited the highest ductility behavior. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:E64–E72, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Rapid fabrication of micro structure on polypropylene by plate to plate isothermal hot embossing method
Authors: Jingyao Sun , Daming Wu , Ying Liu , Zhenzhou Yang , Pengsheng Gou
Published: June 2017

The cycle time of conventional hot embossing can reach as long as 10 min due to its periodically heating and cooling steps. In recent years, researchers around the world had made great efforts to deal with this problem but still some unsolved defects left. To shorten the cycle time and reduce the energy cost therein, we proposed a new type of plate to plate isothermal hot embossing method with a cycle time down to 20 s as practical. The primary difference between two methods was the thermal pattern, that the mold temperature of our new method remained constant and uniform at a relatively low level throughout the whole process. After specific experimental device was designed and built up, polypropylene (PP)—a kind of representative semicrystalline polymer—was chosen as experimental material. In this article, the feasibility and internal mechanism of our method were discussed. The influence of mold temperature, pressure, and holding time on the replication precision of micro V‐cuts were studied. Furthermore, a promising application of PP products in the field of microstructure heat exchangers was also introduced briefly. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:952–960, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Simulation prediction of the fiber breakage history in regular and barrier structure screws in injection molding
Authors: Huang Chao‐Tsai , Tseng Huan‐Chang
Published: June 2017

In recent years, the use of long fiber‐reinforced thermoplastics (LFRT) has become one of the most popular materials in lightweight applications. However, the microstructure of the fiber inside the plastic matrix is quite complex, making it hard to fully control the fiber effect in the injection molding process. On the other hand, the screw structure and operation will affect the residual fiber length significantly. However, the mechanism of how the screw influences the fiber breakage is still not yet clear. Thus, in this study, we apply the screw plastication in the injection molding process to investigate the fiber microstructure mechanism. The results show that more severe fiber breakage occurs when the compression force increases abruptly. Generally speaking, the breakage increases from the compression to the metering section. One effective method to reduce the fiber breakage is to increase the channel depths in both the feeding and the metering sections while taking the plastic melt quality into consideration. Moreover, the fiber breakage phenomena for two types of fibers are also investigated. Evidently, carbon fiber is easier to be broken. Its length distribution has a higher peak at the exit of the screw. This discovery is consistent with the experimental results of the current literature studies. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:452–459, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
ZnxZryOz thin films grown by DC magnetron sputtering
Authors: Sánchez O. , Hernandez‐Velez M.
Published: June 2017

The structural and optical properties of thin films deposited by DC reactive magnetron co‐sputtering using Zn and Zr targets in argon and oxygen gas mixtures at room temperature are reported. The power applied to the Zr cathode was kept constant, while that applied to the Zn cathode was varied between 0 and 150 W to produce very different ZnxZryOz ternary compounds with Zn/Zr atomic ratios in the range of 0.1–10. The composition, crystalline structure, and optical properties of the samples were determined by EDX, XRD, FTIR, and UV‐visible spectroscopies. The grown films are polycrystalline, and the preferred crystallographic orientation depends on the Zn atomic concentration in the film. The optical transmission in the UV‐visible range is approximately 80% in all cases, and as the Zn atomic content increases, the absorption edge shifts to longer wavelengths. The optical band gap, Eg, shifted from 5.5 to 3.5 eV when the Zn/Zr atomic ratio was increased. The results indicate the potential use of these materials in optoelectronic applications.
Water Complexes of Ionic Liquids: 1‐Butyl‐3‐methyl Imidazolium Chloride and Tetrafluoroborate Systems in KBr Matrix.
Authors: Grinvald Iosif I. , Kalagaev Ivan Yu. , Petukhov Anton N. , Spirin Ivan A. , Grushevskaya Alina I. , Kapustin Rostislav V. , Vorotyntsev Ilya V.
Published: June 2017

In the present work the formation of water complexes with ionic liquids (ILs) –1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride [bmim][Cl] and 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate [bmim][BF4] in KBr matrix at ambient temperature by IR technique was studied. There was shown that between the components of the system the hydrogen bond, in which the heteroaromatic fragment and anion (Cl− or BF4−) can participate, arises. The ab initio calculation in terms of DFT predicts a possibility of an interaction between the hydrogen atoms of CH bond in heteroaromatic ring and CH3‐group with oxygen atom as well as between anion (Cl− or BF4−) with hydrogen atom of water molecule.
Microwave‐Assisted Reduction of Nitroarenes by Aminothiophenol/dithiotreitol
Authors: Peyrot Cédric , Vivès Thomas , Legentil Laurent , Lemiègre Loïc , Daniellou Richard
Published: June 2017

Anilines are important intermediates in medicinal chemistry. They are usually obtained from the corresponding nitroarenes by reduction. The present work describes novel conditions for such transformation. Aminothiophenol reduced nitroarenes to corresponding anilines under mild and neutral conditions. The microwave assisted reduction proceeded well in MeOH for several functionalized nitroarenes. The reaction conditions were optimized such as the aminothiophenol could be used in a catalytic amount thanks to its regeneration by dithiotreitol. This methodology was applied to various nitroarenes including p‐nitrophenyl glycosides. A general mechanism is proposed.
In Situ Derived CoB Nanoarray: A High‐Efficiency and Durable 3D Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for Overall Alkaline Water Splitting
Authors: Lu Wenbo , Liu Tingting , Xie Lisi , Tang Chun , Liu Danni , Hao Shuai , Qu Fengli , Du Gu , Ma Yongjun , Asiri Abdullah M. , Sun Xuping
Published: June 2017

The development of efficient bifunctional catalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is of extreme importance for future renewable energy systems. This Communication reports the recent finding that room‐temperature treatment of CoO nanowire array on Ti mesh by NaBH4 in alkaline media leads to in situ development of CoB nanoparticles on nanowire surface. The resulting self‐supported CoB@CoO nanoarray behaves as a 3D bifunctional electrocatalyst with high activity and durability for both HER (<17% current density degradation after 20 h electrolysis) and OER (<14% current density degradation after 20 h electrolysis) with the need of the overpotentials of 102 and 290 mV to drive 50 mA cm−2 in 1.0 m KOH, respectively. Moreover, its two‐electrode alkaline water electrolyzer also shows remarkably high durability and only demands a cell voltage of 1.67 V to deliver 50 mA cm−2 water‐splitting current with a current density retention of 81% after 20 h electrolysis. This work provides a promising methodology for the designing and fabricating of metal‐boride based nanoarray as a high‐active water‐splitting catalyst electrode for applications.
Nursing challenges caring for bone marrow transplantation patients with graft versus host disease
Authors: Neumann Joyce
Published: June 2017

Nursing care of blood and marrow transplantation (BMT) patients is complicated. Nursing considerations of BMT patients with GVHD require an additional set of skills and knowledge that include side effects, both expected and less common, assessment skills, treatment administration, both standard and novel, and acute or intensive care. Nursing care of BMT patients with skin GVHD will be determined by the degree of skin alteration with distinct decisions made about hygiene, both topical and systemic treatment, infection prevention, relief of discomfort, functional ability (ADL) and body image alteration.

The nurse needs to have knowledge about assessment criteria for acute and chronic (NIH) assessment with special attention to skin (presence of rash, texture, mobility), joint mobility, mouth care, dressings, and skin care products. Nursing consideration of gastrointestinal GVHD includes importance of accurate intake and output, obtaining culture, fluid and electrolyte imbalance, nutrition, treatment, and skin care. Complication of GVHD treatment, namely effects of steroids require experts from many disciplines to provide comprehensive care. Caring and advocating for GVHD patients may include preparing for outcomes that are undesirable and impact the patient’s quality of life and mortality. BMT survivorship programs are a major source of patient education about chronic GVHD for patients after treatment. Caring for BMT patients, especially those experiencing GVHD, takes a knowledgeable, committed, and caring team of healthcare providers. Workshops like this are vital in providing information and networking to keep providers around the region and globe engaged in this critical work.
Sentimental value and gift giving: Givers' fears of getting it wrong prevents them from getting it right
Authors: Givi Julian , Galak Jeff
Published: June 2017

Sentimental value is the value derived from an emotionally‐laden item's associations with significant others, or special events or times in one's life. The present research demonstrates that when faced with the choice between sentimentally valuable gifts and gifts with superficial attributes that match the preferences of the recipient, givers give the latter much more often than recipients would prefer to receive such gifts. This asymmetry appears to be driven by givers feeling relatively certain that preference‐matching gifts will be well‐liked by recipients, but relatively uncertain that the same is true for sentimentally valuable gifts. Three studies demonstrate this gift‐giving mismatch and validate the proposed mechanism across a variety of gift‐giving occasions and giver‐receiver relationship types. The contribution of these findings to the gift‐giving literature, as well as directions for future research, are discussed.
Escape of mass and entropy for geodesic flows
Authors: RIQUELME FELIPE , VELOZO ANIBAL
Published: June 2017

In this paper, we study the ergodic theory of the geodesic flow on negatively curved geometrically finite manifolds. We prove that the measure-theoretical entropy is upper semicontinuous when there is no loss of mass. In the case where mass is lost, the critical exponents of parabolic subgroups of the fundamental group have a significant meaning. More precisely, the failure of upper-semicontinuity of the entropy is determined by the maximal parabolic critical exponent. We also study the pressure of positive Hölder-continuous potentials going to zero through the cusps. We prove that the pressure map $t\mapsto P(tF)$ is differentiable until it undergoes a phase transition, after which it becomes constant. This description allows us, in particular, to compute the entropy of the geodesic flow at infinity.
A Network Model of Hand Hygiene: How Good Is Good Enough to Stop the Spread of MRSA?
Authors: Goldstein Neal D. , Eppes Stephen C. , Mackley Amy , Tuttle Deborah , Paul David A.
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

Simulation models have been used to investigate the impact of hand hygiene on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) transmission within the healthcare setting, but they have been limited by their ability to accurately model complex patient–provider interactions.

METHODS

Using a network-based modeling approach, we created a simulated neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) representing the potential for per-hour infant–infant MRSA transmission via the healthcare worker resulting in subsequent colonization. The starting prevalence of MRSA colonized infants varied from 2% to 8%. Hand hygiene ranged from 0% (none) to 100% (theoretical maximum), with an expected effectiveness of 88% inferred from literature.

RESULTS

Based on empiric care provided within a 1-hour period, the mean number of infant–infant MRSA transmissible opportunities per hour was 1.3. Compared to no hand hygiene and averaged across all initial colonization states, colonization was reduced by approximately 29%, 51%, 67%, 80%, and 86% for the respective levels of hygiene: 24%, 48%, 68%, 88%, and 100%. Preterm infants had a 61% increase in MRSA colonization, and mechanically ventilated infants had a 27% increase.

CONCLUSIONS

Even under optimal hygiene conditions, horizontal transmission of MRSA is possible. Additional prevention paradigms should focus on the most acute patients because they are at greatest risk.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2017;38:945–952
Laboratory Intercomparison of Pleistocene Bone Radiocarbon Dating Protocols
Authors: Huels Matthias , van der Plicht Johannes , Brock Fiona , Matzerath Simon , Chivall David
Published: June 2017

Since its invention in the late 1940s, radiocarbon (14C) dating has become an important tool for absolute dating. A prerequisite for the acceptance of this method is consistency between, and compatibility of, 14C dates from different laboratories. To meet these requirements, international laboratory intercomparison studies with different sample materials are frequently performed (e.g. TIRI, FIRI, VIRI and, most recently, SIRI).Intercomparison is especially relevant and difficult for samples close to the dating limit of ~50 kBP, not least for bone samples. A 14C intercomparison study between the Leibniz-Laboratory in Kiel (Germany), the Center for Isotope Research (CIO) in Groningen (the Netherlands), and the Oxford Radiocarbon Accelerator Unit (ORAU, United Kingdom) was performed on three Pleistocene (MIS3) mammal bone samples from the Brick Quarry site Coenen (BQC) in Germany. The comparison of individually prepared and measured bone collagen 14C activities, results from shared collagen measurements, and respective background signatures and correction points to the latter as the main factor responsible for observed differences in final given radiocarbon estimates.
A downlist is not a demotion: Red List status and reality
Authors: Mallon David P. , Jackson Rodney M.
Published: June 2017

Assessments of biodiversity status are needed to track trends, and the IUCN Red List has become the accepted global standard for documenting the extinction risk of species. Obtaining robust data on population size is an essential component of any assessment of a species’ status, including assessments for the IUCN Red List. Obtaining such estimates is complicated by methodological and logistical issues, which are more pronounced in the case of cryptic species, such as the snow leopardPanthera uncia. Estimates of the total population size of this species have, to date, been based on little more than guesstimates, but a comprehensive summary of recent field research indicates that the conservation status of the snow leopard may be less dire than previously thought. A revised categorization, from Endangered to Vulnerable, on the IUCN Red List was proposed but met some opposition, as did a recent, similar recategorization of the giant pandaAiluropoda melanoleuca. Possible factors motivating such attitudes are discussed. Downlisting on the IUCN Red List indicates that the species concerned is further from extinction, and is always to be welcomed, whether resulting from successful conservation intervention or improved knowledge of status and trends. Celebrating success is important to reinforce the message that conservation works, and to incentivize donors.
Measuring Grit
Authors: Schmidt Fabian T. C. , Fleckenstein Johanna , Retelsdorf Jan , Eskreis-Winkler Lauren , Möller Jens
Published: June 2017

Abstract. The construct grit originates from positive psychology and describes an individual’s tendency to persistently pursue long-term goals despite challenges or obstacles. Previous research has shown that domain-general grit is a predictor of educational and vocational success. The present research aimed to establish and validate a German version of the Short Grit Scale by Duckworth and Quinn (2009) , named the BISS-8 ( Beharrlichkeit and Beständiges Intere sse) Scale, and to test for the domain specificity of grit in an educational context. We conducted three studies to investigate the BISS-8 Scale: in Study 1 ( N = 525 university students) confirmatory factor analyses (CFAs) replicated a two-dimensional higher-order structure for the scale. Study 2 ( N = 173 university students) investigated the correlations of grit with external criteria such as grade point average (GPA), generalized self-efficacy, general academic self-concept, and personality traits. Finally, in Study 3 ( N = 271 high school students), we found differential correlations with school achievement for domain-specific grit. Moreover, the validity of the BISS-8 Scale was also supported for adolescents by replicating the measurement model. All in all, our results indicate the validity of the BISS-8 Scale and show the importance to account for grit in different domains.
Aptazyme-embedded guide RNAs enable ligand-responsive genome editing and transcriptional activation
Authors: Tang Weixin , Hu Johnny H. , Liu David R.
Published: June 2017

Programmable sequence-specific genome editing agents such as CRISPR-Cas9 have greatly advanced our ability to manipulate the human genome. Although canonical forms of genome-editing agents and programmable transcriptional regulators are constitutively active, precise temporal and spatial control over genome editing and transcriptional regulation activities would enable the more selective and potentially safer use of these powerful technologies. Here, by incorporating ligand-responsive self-cleaving catalytic RNAs (aptazymes) into guide RNAs, we developed a set of aptazyme-embedded guide RNAs that enable small molecule-controlled nuclease-mediated genome editing and small molecule-controlled base editing, as well as small molecule-dependent transcriptional activation in mammalian cells.
Virus-host relationships of marine single-celled eukaryotes resolved from metatranscriptomics
Authors: Moniruzzaman Mohammad , Wurch Louie L. , Alexander Harriet , Dyhrman Sonya T. , Gobler Christopher J. , Wilhelm Steven W.
Published: June 2017

Establishing virus–host relationships has historically relied on culture-dependent approaches. Here we report on the use of marine metatranscriptomics to probe virus–host relationships. Statistical co-occurrence analyses of dsDNA, ssRNA and dsRNA viral markers of polyadenylation-selected RNA sequences from microbial communities dominated by Aureococcus anophagefferens (Quantuck Bay, NY), and diatoms (Narragansett Bay, RI) show active infections by diverse giant viruses (NCLDVs) associated with algal and nonalgal hosts. Ongoing infections of A. anophagefferens by a known Mimiviridae (AaV) occur during bloom peak and decline. Bloom decline is also accompanied by increased activity of viruses other than AaV, including (+) ssRNA viruses. In Narragansett Bay, increased temporal resolution reveals active NCLDVs with both ‘boom-and-bust’ and ‘steady-state infection’-like ecologies that include known as well as novel virus–host interactions. Our approach offers a method for screening active viral infections and develops links between viruses and their potential hosts in situ. Our observations further demonstrate that previously unknown virus–host relationships in marine systems are abundant.
PfCDPK1 mediated signaling in erythrocytic stages of Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Kumar Sudhir , Kumar Manish , Ekka Roseleen , Dvorin Jeffrey D. , Paul Aditya S. , Madugundu Anil K. , Gilberger Tim , Gowda Harsha , Duraisingh Manoj T. , Keshava Prasad T. S. , Sharma Pushkar
Published: June 2017

Calcium Dependent Protein Kinases are key effectors of calcium signaling in malaria parasite. PfCDPK1 is critical for asexual development of Plasmodium falciparum, but its precise function and substrates remain largely unknown. Using a conditional knockdown strategy, we here establish that this kinase is critical for the invasion of host erythrocytes. Furthermore, using a multidisciplinary approach involving comparative phosphoproteomics we gain insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms. We identify substrates of PfCDPK1, which includes proteins of Inner Membrane Complex and glideosome-actomyosin motor assembly. Interestingly, PfCDPK1 phosphorylates PfPKA regulatory subunit (PfPKA-R) and regulates PfPKA activity in the parasite, which may be relevant for the process of invasion. This study delineates the signaling network of PfCDPK1 and sheds light on mechanisms via which it regulates invasion.
‘ARMAN’ archaea depend on association with euryarchaeal host in culture and in situ
Authors: Golyshina Olga V. , Toshchakov Stepan V. , Makarova Kira S. , Gavrilov Sergey N. , Korzhenkov Aleksei A. , La Cono Violetta , Arcadi Erika , Nechitaylo Taras Y. , Ferrer Manuel , Kublanov Ilya V. , Wolf Yuri I. , Yakimov Michail M. , Golyshin Peter N.
Published: June 2017

Intriguing, yet uncultured ‘ARMAN’-like archaea are metabolically dependent on other members of the microbial community. It remains uncertain though which hosts they rely upon, and, because of the lack of complete genomes, to what extent. Here, we report the co-culturing of ARMAN-2-related organism, Mia14, with Cuniculiplasma divulgatum PM4 during the isolation of this strain from acidic streamer in Parys Mountain (Isle of Anglesey, UK). Mia14 is highly enriched in the binary culture (ca. 10% genomic reads) and its ungapped 0.95 Mbp genome points at severe voids in central metabolic pathways, indicating dependence on the host, C. divulgatum PM4. Analysis of C. divulgatum isolates from different sites and shotgun sequence data of Parys Mountain samples suggests an extensive genetic exchange between Mia14 and hosts in situ. Within the subset of organisms with high-quality genomic assemblies representing the ‘DPANN’ superphylum, the Mia14 lineage has had the largest gene flux, with dozens of genes gained that are implicated in the host interaction.
Regulation of retinal pigment epithelial cell phenotype by Annexin A8
Authors: Lueck Katharina , Carr Amanda-Jayne F. , Stampoulis Dimitrios , Gerke Volker , Rescher Ursula , Greenwood John , Moss Stephen E.
Published: June 2017

The retinoic acid derivative fenretinide (FR) is capable of transdifferentiating cultured retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells towards a neuronal-like phenotype, but the underlying mechanisms are not understood. To identify genes involved in this process we performed a microarray analysis of RPE cells pre- and post-FR treatment, and observed a marked down-regulation of AnnexinA8 (AnxA8) in transdifferentiated cells. To determine whether AnxA8 plays a role in maintaining RPE cell phenotype we directly manipulated AnxA8 expression in cultured and primary RPE cells using siRNA-mediated gene suppression, and over-expression of AnxA8-GFP in conjunction with exposure to FR. Treatment of RPE cells with AnxA8 siRNA recapitulated exposure to FR, with cell cycle arrest, neuronal transdifferentiation, and concomitant up-regulation of the neuronal markers calretinin and calbindin, as assessed by real-time PCR and immunofluorescence. In contrast, AnxA8 transient over-expression in ARPE-19 cells prevented FR-induced differentiation. Ectopic expression of AnxA8 in AnxA8-depleted cells led to decreased neuronal marker staining, and normal cell growth as judged by phosphohistone H3 staining, cell counting and cleaved caspase-3 levels. These data show that down-regulation of AnxA8 is both necessary and sufficient for neuronal transdifferentiation of RPE cells and reveal an essential role for AnxA8 as a key regulator of RPE phenotype.
Stability limits of tin-based electrocatalyst supports
Authors: Geiger Simon , Kasian Olga , Mingers Andrea M. , Mayrhofer Karl J. J. , Cherevko Serhiy
Published: June 2017

Tin-based oxides are attractive catalyst support materials considered for application in fuel cells and electrolysers. If properly doped, these oxides are relatively good conductors, assuring that ohmic drop in real applications is minimal. Corrosion of dopants, however, will lead to severe performance deterioration. The present work aims to investigate the potential dependent dissolution rates of indium tin oxide (ITO), fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) and antimony doped tin oxide (ATO) in the broad potential window ranging from −0.6 to 3.2 VRHE in 0.1 M H2SO4 electrolyte. It is shown that in the cathodic part of the studied potential window all oxides dissolve during the electrochemical reduction of the oxide – cathodic dissolution. In case an oxidation potential is applied to the reduced electrode, metal oxidation is accompanied with additional dissolution – anodic dissolution. Additional dissolution is observed during the oxygen evolution reaction. FTO withstands anodic conditions best, while little and strong dissolution is observed for ATO and ITO, respectively. In discussion of possible corrosion mechanisms, obtained dissolution onset potentials are correlated with existing thermodynamic data.
Ribo-attenuators: novel elements for reliable and modular riboswitch engineering
Authors: Folliard Thomas , Mertins Barbara , Steel Harrison , Prescott Thomas P. , Newport Thomas , Jones Christopher W. , Wadhams George , Bayer Travis , Armitage Judith P. , Papachristodoulou Antonis , Rothschild Lynn J.
Published: June 2017

Riboswitches are structural genetic regulatory elements that directly couple the sensing of small molecules to gene expression. They have considerable potential for applications throughout synthetic biology and bio-manufacturing as they are able to sense a wide range of small molecules and regulate gene expression in response. Despite over a decade of research they have yet to reach this considerable potential as they cannot yet be treated as modular components. This is due to several limitations including sensitivity to changes in genetic context, low tunability, and variability in performance. To overcome the associated difficulties with riboswitches, we have designed and introduced a novel genetic element called a ribo-attenuator in Bacteria. This genetic element allows for predictable tuning, insulation from contextual changes, and a reduction in expression variation. Ribo-attenuators allow riboswitches to be treated as truly modular and tunable components, thus increasing their reliability for a wide range of applications.
Analysis of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species generated in three liquid media by low temperature helium plasma jet
Authors: Chauvin Julie , Judée Florian , Yousfi Mohammed , Vicendo Patricia , Merbahi Nofel
Published: June 2017

In order to identify aqueous species formed in Plasma activated media (PAM), quantitative investigations of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS, RNS) were performed and compared to Milli-Q water and culture media without and with Fetal Calf Serum. Electron paramagnetic resonance, fluorometric and colorimetric analysis were used to identify and quantify free radicals generated by helium plasma jet in these liquids. Results clearly show the formation of ROS such as hydroxyl radical, superoxide anion radical and singlet oxygen in order of the micromolar range of concentrations. Nitric oxide, hydrogen peroxide and nitrite-nitrate anions (in range of several hundred micromolars) are the major species observed in PAM. The composition of the medium has a major impact on the pH of the solution during plasma treatment, on the stability of the different RONS that are produced and on their reactivity with biomolecules. To emphasize the interactions of plasma with a complex medium, amino acid degradation by means of mass spectrometry was also investigated using methionine, tyrosine, tryptophan and arginine. All of these components such as long lifetime RONS and oxidized biological compounds may contribute to the cytotoxic effect of PAM. This study provides mechanistic insights into the mechanisms involved in cell death after treatment with PAM.
Label Free Detection of Sensitive Mid-Infrared Biomarkers of Glomerulonephritis in Urine Using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Yu Mei-Ching , Rich Peter , Foreman Liberty , Smith Jennifer , Yu Mei-Shiuan , Tanna Anisha , Dibbur Vinod , Unwin Robert , Tam Frederick W. K.
Published: June 2017

More reliable biomarkers using near-patient technologies are needed to improve early diagnosis and intervention for patients with renal disease. Infrared (IR) vibrational spectroscopy/microspectroscopy is an established analytical method that was first used in biomedical research over 20 years ago. With the advances in instrumentation, computational and mathematical techniques, this technology has now been applied to a variety of diseases; however, applications in nephrology are just beginning to emerge. In the present study, we used attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy to analyze urine samples collected from rodent models of inflammatory glomerulonephritis (GN) as well as from patients with crescentic GN, with the aim of identifying potential renal biomarkers; several characteristic mid-IR spectral markers were identified in urine samples. Specifically, a 1545 cm−1 band increased in intensity with the progression and severity of GN in rats, mice and humans. Furthermore, its intensity declined significantly in response to corticosteroid treatment in nephritic rats. In conclusion, our results suggest that specific urinary FTIR biomarkers may provide a rapid, sensitive and novel non-invasive means of diagnosing inflammatory forms of GN, and for real-time monitoring of progress, and response to treatment.
Past summer upwelling events in the Gulf of Oman derived from a coral geochemical record
Authors: Watanabe Takaaki K. , Watanabe Tsuyoshi , Yamazaki Atsuko , Pfeiffer Miriam , Garbe-Schönberg Dieter , Claereboudt Michel R.
Published: June 2017

We used a high-resolution oxygen isotope (δ18Ocoral), carbon isotope (δ13Ccoral) and Sr/Ca ratios measured in the skeleton of a reef-building coral, Porites sp., to reveal seasonal-scale upwelling events and their interannual variability in the Gulf of Oman. Our δ13Ccoral record shows sharp negative excursions in the summer, which correlate with known upwelling events. Using δ13Ccoral anomalies as a proxy for upwelling, we found 17 summer upwelling events occurred in the last 26 years. These anomalous negative excursions of δ13Ccoral result from upwelled water depleted in 13C (dissolved inorganic carbon) and decreased water-column transparency. We reconstructed biweekly SSTs from coral Sr/Ca ratios and the oxygen isotopic composition of seawater (δ18OSW) by subtracting the reconstructed Sr/Ca-SST from δ18Ocoral. Significant δ18OSW anomalies occur during major upwelling events. Our results suggest δ13Ccoral anomalies can be used as a proxy for seasonal upwelling intensity in the Gulf of Oman, which, driven by the Indian/Arabian Summer Monsoon, is subject to interannual variability.
Thermal conductivities of phosphorene allotropes from first-principles calculations: a comparative study
Authors: Zhang J. , Liu H. J. , Cheng L. , Wei J. , Liang J. H. , Fan D. D. , Jiang P. H. , Shi J.
Published: June 2017

Phosphorene has attracted tremendous interest recently due to its intriguing electronic properties. However, the thermal transport properties of phosphorene, especially for its allotropes, are still not well-understood. In this work, we calculate the thermal conductivities of five phosphorene allotropes (α-, β-, γ-, δ- and ζ-phase) by using phonon Boltzmann transport theory combined with first-principles calculations. It is found that the α-phosphorene exhibits considerable anisotropic thermal transport, while it is less obvious in the other four phosphorene allotropes. The highest thermal conductivity is found in the β-phosphorene, followed by the δ-, γ- and ζ-phase. The much lower thermal conductivity of the ζ-phase can be attributed to its relatively complex atomic configuration. It is expected that the rich thermal transport properties of phosphorene allotropes can have potential applications in the thermoelectrics and thermal management.
Band Structure of Topological Insulator BiSbTe1.25Se1.75
Authors: Lohani H. , Mishra P. , Banerjee A. , Majhi K. , Ganesan R. , Manju U. , Topwal D. , Kumar P. S. Anil , Sekhar B. R.
Published: June 2017

We present our angle resolved photoelectron spectroscopy (ARPES) and density functional theory results on quaternary topological insulator (TI) BiSbTe1.25Se1.75 (BSTS) confirming the non-trivial topology of the surface state bands (SSBs) in this compound. We find that the SSBs, which are are sensitive to the atomic composition of the terminating surface have a partial 3D character. Our detailed study of the band bending (BB) effects shows that in BSTS the Dirac point (DP) shifts by more than two times compared to that in Bi2Se3 to reach the saturation. The stronger BB in BSTS could be due to the difference in screening of the surface charges. From momentum density curves (MDCs) of the ARPES data we obtained an energy dispersion relation showing the warping strength of the Fermi surface in BSTS to be intermediate between those found in Bi2Se3 and Bi2Te3 and also to be tunable by controlling the ratio of chalcogen/pnictogen atoms. Our experiments also reveal that the nature of the BB effects are highly sensitive to the exposure of the fresh surface to various gas species. These findings have important implications in the tuning of DP in TIs for technological applications.
Biomaterial-Free Three-Dimensional Bioprinting of Cardiac Tissue using Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Derived Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Ong Chin Siang , Fukunishi Takuma , Zhang Huaitao , Huang Chen Yu , Nashed Andrew , Blazeski Adriana , DiSilvestre Deborah , Vricella Luca , Conte John , Tung Leslie , Tomaselli Gordon F. , Hibino Narutoshi
Published: June 2017

We have developed a novel method to deliver stem cells using 3D bioprinted cardiac patches, free of biomaterials. Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs), fibroblasts (FB) and endothelial cells (EC) were aggregated to create mixed cell spheroids. Cardiac patches were created from spheroids (CM:FB:EC = 70:15:15, 70:0:30, 45:40:15) using a 3D bioprinter. Cardiac patches were analyzed with light and video microscopy, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, cell viability assays and optical electrical mapping. Cardiac tissue patches of all cell ratios beat spontaneously after 3D bioprinting. Patches exhibited ventricular-like action potential waveforms and uniform electrical conduction throughout the patch. Conduction velocities were higher and action potential durations were significantly longer in patches containing a lower percentage of FBs. Immunohistochemistry revealed staining for CM, FB and EC markers, with rudimentary CD31+ blood vessel formation. Immunofluorescence revealed the presence of Cx43, the main cardiac gap junction protein, localized to cell-cell borders. In vivo implantation suggests vascularization of 3D bioprinted cardiac patches with engraftment into native rat myocardium. This constitutes a significant step towards a new generation of stem cell-based treatment for heart failure.
SmI2-mediated reductive cyclization of β-arylthio ketones: a facile and diastereoselective synthesis of thiochroman derivatives
Authors: Mao Hui , You Bing-Xin , Zhou Lie-Jin , Xie Ting-Ting , Wen Yi-Hang , Lv Xin , Wang Xiao-Xia
Published: June 2017

SmI2-mediated reductive cyclization of β-arylthio ketones afforded a general approach to dihydrothiochroman-ols in good yields and high degrees of diastereoselectivity.
Self-oriented TiO2 nanosheets in films for enhancement of electron transport in nanoporous semiconductor networks
Authors: Maitani M. M. , Xu C. , Hashimoto K. , Ueda Y. , Wada Y.
Published: June 2017

Self-oriented TiO2 nanosheets in nanoporous films were obtained by surface functionalization with amino acid derivatives adsorbed on nanosheets.
Efficient water oxidation with amorphous transition metal boride catalysts synthesized by chemical reduction of metal nitrate salts at room temperature
Authors: Yang Yisu , Zhuang Linzhou , Rufford Thomas E. , Wang Shaobin , Zhu Zhonghua
Published: June 2017

We present a variety of amorphous transition-metal borides prepared at room temperature by a chemical reduction method as highly active catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER).