bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statistical Models of Claim Distributions in Fire Insurance
Authors: Benckert Lars-Gunnar , Jung Jan
Published: July 2016

The authors have studied the combined data on claims in fire insurance of dwelling houses reported 1958-1969 by Swedish fire insurance companies The claims were cleared of deductibles and adjusted according to a suitable index Only losses above the largest deductible (in real value) applied during the observation period were included.

The material contains four different classes according to the fire resistibillty of the building construction For international comparisons, the pure classes B1 (“stone” dwellings) and B4 (wooden houses) are of interest The distribution of the claims could be well approximated by the log-normal distribution in B1and by the Pareto distribution in B4 An equally good or better fit was obtained by assuming the original loss, reported or not, being distributed according to these distributions and applying the distributions, conditioned by the loss being larger than the deductible in both cases the distribution parameters are functions of the insurance amount in such a way, that the mean value of the loss is described as a power of this amount.

The authors refrain from any theoretical arguments for the general applicability of the distributions used They observe, however, the good approximation by wellknown parametric distributions which facilitates many actuarial taks, such as the determination of first loss premiums, deductible premium factors, excess-of-loss premiums etc The agreement between model and reality make these functions fit for use in the models underlying the general risk theory and in the more comprehensive models of the non-life insurance business.
Contributions to the Theory of the Largest Claim Cover
Authors: Kupper J.
Published: July 2016

In the wake of the technical development of our era we are increasingly faced with claims of extremely large amounts.

Whereas even in the past century large claims were mostly due to elemental or natural forces such as earthquakes, hurricanes and floods, there are today other causes, conditioned by human factors, that have considerably increased in importance. Another fact to be observed is that the risks that are passed on to the insurance market assume a more serious character year by year. Large building complexes, giant tankers, containers, atomic power stations, dams and jumbo jets pose for the insurers problems which are in no way easy to solve, since the risk covers required touch the limits of market capacity and their rating is subject to great uncertainties. At the same time, the readiness to underwrite such covers is a matter of utmost importance for the private insurance industry.

For the coverage of such large risks, various insurance forms have been developed in the past years within the range of non-proportional methods. Besides the excess of loss and stop loss covers in their usual form, the cumulative loss cover and the largest claim cover have attracted particular attention. The cumulative risk cover has, for example, been dealt with in [11]) and has also been frequently offered in practice. The coverage of the largest claim or, more generally, of the sum of the n largest claims does not appear to have gained a proper foothold in practice in spite of various valuable contributions in this field—considering particularly [2], [3], [5], [8] and [14]. The fact that it was during 1963/64 that various authors analysed these problems is no coincidence, for it was then that in two ASTIN Colloquia these topics were discussed.
Molecular characterization and antimicrobial resistance of STEC strains isolated from healthy cattle in 2011 and 2013 in Spain
Authors: CABAL A. , PORRERO M. C. , DE LA CRUZ M. L. , SAEZ J. L. , BARCENA C. , LOPEZ G. , GORTAZAR C. , DOMINGUEZ L. , ALVAREZ J.
Published: July 2016

Prevention of Shiga toxin-producingEscherichia coli(STEC) foodborne outbreaks is hampered by its complex epidemiology. We assessed the distribution of virulence genes (VGs), main serogroups/serotypes for public health [haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS)-related], antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiles and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) patterns in a collection of STEC isolates obtained from cattle hide (n= 149) and faecal (n= 406) samples collected during a national survey conducted in Spain in 2011 and 2013. Isolates were cultured using McConkey and CT-SMAC agar after enrichment, and confirmed as STEC by PCR. STEC prevalence in hides (15·4%) was higher than in faeces (10·7%) and O157:H7 was more frequent in the former (2·7%vs. 0·99%). Non-O157 HUS-related serogroups were present albeit at low frequencies. The non-O157 isolates were more heterogeneous than O157:H7 in their VG patterns, with 25/64 presenting VGs from both STEC and enterotoxigenic pathotypes (hybrid isolates). Of the STEC isolates, 62·5% were resistant at least to one antimicrobial, and no differences in AMR between O157:H7 and non-O157 were detected. All isolates had different profiles by PFGE and did not form a cluster. Overall, our results demonstrated that STEC in the cattle reservoir is still a matter of concern for human health due to the presence of HUS-related serogroups, the occurrence of certain VGs, AMR and the additional risks that hybrid isolates may pose, and thus warrants further investigation.
Cost-effectiveness of interferon-gamma release assays for tuberculosis screening in nursing homes
Authors: KOWADA A.
Published: July 2016

Tuberculosis (TB) in older people is a significant public health problem in low TB-incidence countries. Older persons have increased TB incidence, higher reactivation and mortality. A delay in diagnosis and initiation of TB treatment in patients with atypical clinical and radiological features is a significant factor of widespread transmission. This study aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of interferon-gamma release assays [IGRAs; QuantiFERON®-TB Gold In-Tube (QFT) and T-SPOT®.TB (T-SPOT)] compared to the tuberculin skin test (TST) and chest X-ray (CXR) examination for TB screening for nursing homes. Decision trees and Markov models were constructed using a societal perspective on a lifetime horizon. Seven strategies: no screening, TST, QFT, T-SPOT, TST followed by QFT, TST followed by T-SPOT, and CXR were considered. QFT [US$ 401·9, 4·36 707 QALY (year 2014 values)] was the most cost-effective at the willingness-to-pay level of US$ 50 000/QALY gained. TST followed by QFT was the most cost-effective in residents with comorbidities. CXR was less cost-effective. Cost-effectiveness was sensitive to latent TB infection (LTBI) rate and bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccination rate. Effective LTBI screening using IGRA is recommended to prevent TB transmission not only in nursing homes but also in local communities in low-incidence countries.
Giardia outbreak associated with a roadside spring in Rensselaer County, New York
Authors: BEDARD B. A. , ELDER R. , PHILLIPS L. , WACHUNAS M. F.
Published: July 2016

In September 2009, the Rensselaer County Department of Health investigated an increase in Giardia duodenalis cases. The epidemiological investigation identified that a source of the illness could be a roadside spring located in the eastern part of the county. Epidemiological and environmental health staff conducted a site visit to the roadside spring and found several concerns. Water samples were collected from the roadside spring and sent to the New York State Department of Health for analysis. The water sample results indicated the presence of empty Giardia cysts. Prevention methods occurred and the roadside spring was destroyed. A total of 36 laboratory-confirmed cases of Giardia were identified from this outbreak that included residents of New York State and Massachusetts.
Measuring the terminal velocity of tiny diaspores
Authors: Zotz Gerhard , Weichgrebe Tizian , Happatz Harry , Einzmann Helena J.R.
Published: July 2016

Although it has long been acknowledged that seed characteristics are of major importance to the conquest of tree crowns by vascular epiphytes, there is surprisingly little quantitative evidence on the aerodynamic properties of their diaspores. We used a custom-built device to determine the terminal velocity (Vterm) of falling seeds, a parameter that has been shown to have high predictive power for the wind dispersal potential of diaspores under natural conditions. We determined Vterm of 45 species of epiphytic and terrestrial Orchidaceae, which almost doubles the currently available database for this family. Although varying by a factor of five with values of 0.09–0.4 m s−1, Vterm was invariably very slow compared to plants in general. For each species, we also took morphological data and determined seed mass. None of these parameters was linearly correlated with Vterm and neither did the average Vterm differ between species found in the two habitats, although seeds of terrestrial taxa were significantly larger and heavier. Finally, we demonstrate the potential of our device to measure Vterm of even smaller diaspores by successfully quantifying Vterm of fern spores. This tool has much potential for the quantitative study of dispersal of plants with tiny diaspores, particularly in a conservation context in fragmented landscapes.
Compact modified ‘T’ slot circular patch quad band antenna for MIMO applications
Authors: Rajagopal Chithradevi , Balakrishnapillai Suseela Sreeja , Noorullakhan Nafiza , Sankararajan Radha
Published: July 2016

Compact modified T-slot circular patch antenna for multiple input multiple output (MIMO) applications, which has good response for four operating frequency bands is developed. Here the design consists of a circular patch with a new slot loaded T- shape on one side of the substrate and a feeder line on the other side of the substrate. A shorting pin is located between the patch and the feeder line. This proposed antenna resonates at the frequencies of 2, 4.8, 5.4, and 6.2 GHz covering the S-band, C-band, and LTE applications. The independent tuning of frequency bands is achieved by varying the length of the slots. By independent tuning of frequency bands, the selection of interested frequency band is achieved. The single element with miniaturized size of 1.945λ × 1.945 λ (30 × 30 mm2) is achieved including the feed line. The antenna has been tested for MIMO applications. The measured envelope correlation coefficient between the two elements, which are spaced 0.139 λ is <0.1(low correlation) and mutual coupling is found to be in the range of −20 dB to −80 dB. The simulation and measurement results of reflection coefficient, mutual coupling, and radiation pattern are presented.
Whispering gallery mode resonators in microwave physics and technologies
Authors: Barannik Alexander , Cherpak Nickolay , Kirichenko Alexander , Prokopenko Yurii , Vitusevich Svetlana , Yakovenko Vladimir
Published: July 2016

We review the main results of the development of whispering gallery mode (WGM) resonators and their unique applications due to their quasi-optical functionality. Several types of advanced WGM resonators are proposed by the authors. The theoretical results are described for the resonators with an analytical solution of the electromagnetic problems. Special emphasis is given to the interaction of moving charged particles and waves of cylindrical resonators. Important aspects are described concerning the developed sapphire resonators, for which an exact solution can only be found by using specially designed computer program products. A separate section of the paper is devoted to application aspects of the WGM resonators. In particular, it describes advanced solutions for overcoming the problems of measuring the small microwave (MW) surface impedance of unconventional superconductors in the form of large-area thin films and small samples under study. In addition, a demonstration of accurate complex permittivity measurements of small volumes of lossy liquids is provided. Special emphasis is given to highly stable MW signal sources, namely Ka-band transistor-based feedback oscillator and solid-state maser WGM oscillators. Recently obtained results are presented of experimental studies of the auto-oscillatory system developed on the basis of the WGM resonator with relativistic electron beam.
An unusual strategy for the anoxic biodegradation of phthalate
Authors: Ebenau-Jehle Christa , Mergelsberg Mario , Fischer Stefanie , Brüls Thomas , Jehmlich Nico , von Bergen Martin , Boll Matthias
Published: July 2016

In the past two decades, the study of oxygen-independent degradation of widely abundant aromatic compounds in anaerobic bacteria has revealed numerous unprecedented enzymatic principles. Surprisingly, the organisms, metabolites and enzymes involved in the degradation of o-phthalate (1,2-dicarboxybenzene), mainly derived from phthalate esters that are annually produced at the million ton scale, are sparsely known. Here, we demonstrate a previously unknown capacity of complete phthalate degradation in established aromatic compound-degrading, denitrifying model organisms of the genera Thauera, Azoarcus and ‘Aromatoleum’. Differential proteome analyses revealed phthalate-induced gene clusters involved in uptake and conversion of phthalate to the central intermediate benzoyl-CoA. Enzyme assays provided in vitro evidence for the formation of phthaloyl-CoA by a succinyl-CoA- and phthalate-specific CoA transferase, which is essential for the subsequent oxygen-sensitive decarboxylation to benzoyl-CoA. The extreme instability of the phthaloyl-CoA intermediate requires highly balanced CoA transferase and decarboxylase activities to avoid its cellular accumulation. Phylogenetic analysis revealed phthaloyl-CoA decarboxylase as a novel member of the UbiD-like, (de)carboxylase enzyme family. Homologs of the encoding gene form a phylogenetic cluster and are found in soil, freshwater and marine bacteria; an ongoing global distribution of a possibly only recently evolved degradation pathway is suggested.
Speciation and ecological success in dimly lit waters: horizontal gene transfer in a green sulfur bacteria bloom unveiled by metagenomic assembly
Authors: Llorens-Marès Tomàs , Liu Zhenfeng , Allen Lisa Zeigler , Rusch Douglas B , Craig Matthew T , Dupont Chris L , Bryant Donald A , Casamayor Emilio O
Published: July 2016

A natural planktonic bloom of a brown-pigmented photosynthetic green sulfur bacteria (GSB) from the disphotic zone of karstic Lake Banyoles (NE Spain) was studied as a natural enrichment culture from which a nearly complete genome was obtained after metagenomic assembly. We showed in situ a case where horizontal gene transfer (HGT) explained the ecological success of a natural population unveiling ecosystem-specific adaptations. The uncultured brown-pigmented GSB was 99.7% identical in the 16S rRNA gene sequence to its green-pigmented cultured counterpart Chlorobium luteolum DSM 273T. Several differences were detected for ferrous iron acquisition potential, ATP synthesis and gas vesicle formation, although the most striking trait was related to pigment biosynthesis strategy. Chl. luteolum DSM 273T synthesizes bacteriochlorophyll (BChl) c, whereas Chl. luteolum CIII incorporated by HGT a 18-kbp cluster with the genes needed for BChl e and specific carotenoids biosynthesis that provided ecophysiological advantages to successfully colonize the dimly lit waters. We also genomically characterized what we believe to be the first described GSB phage, which based on the metagenomic coverage was likely in an active state of lytic infection. Overall, we observed spread HGT and we unveiled clear evidence for virus-mediated HGT in a natural population of photosynthetic GSB.
Bio-inspired sensitive and reversible mechanochromisms via strain-dependent cracks and folds
Authors: Zeng Songshan , Zhang Dianyun , Huang Wenhan , Wang Zhaofeng , Freire Stephan G. , Yu Xiaoyuan , Smith Andrew T. , Huang Emily Y. , Nguon Helen , Sun Luyi
Published: July 2016

A number of marine organisms use muscle-controlled surface structures to achieve rapid changes in colour and transparency with outstanding reversibility. Inspired by these display tactics, we develop analogous deformation-controlled surface-engineering approaches via strain-dependent cracks and folds to realize the following four mechanochromic devices: (1) transparency change mechanochromism (TCM), (2) luminescent mechanochromism (LM), (3) colour alteration mechanochromism (CAM) and (4) encryption mechanochromism (EM). These devices are based on a simple bilayer system that exhibits a broad range of mechanochromic behaviours with high sensitivity and reversibility. The TCM device can reversibly switch between transparent and opaque states. The LM can emit intensive fluorescence as stretched with very high strain sensitivity. The CAM can turn fluorescence from green to yellow to orange as stretched within 20% strain. The EM device can reversibly reveal and conceal any desirable patterns.
Essential role of autoactivation circuitry on Aurora B-mediated H2AX-pS121 in mitosis
Authors: Shimada Midori , Goshima Takahiro , Matsuo Hiromi , Johmura Yoshikazu , Haruta Mayumi , Murata Kazuhiro , Tanaka Hiromitsu , Ikawa Masahito , Nakanishi Keiko , Nakanishi Makoto
Published: July 2016

Proper deposition and activation of Aurora B at the centromere is critical for faithful chromosome segregation in mammals. However, the mechanistic basis for abrupt Aurora B kinase activation at the centromere has not yet been fully understood. We demonstrate here that Aurora B-mediated phosphorylation of histone H2AX at serine 121 (H2AX-pS121) promotes Aurora B autophosphorylation and is essential for proper chromosome segregation. Aurora B-mediated H2AX-pS121 is specifically detected at the centromere during mitosis. H2AX depletion results in a severe defect in activation and deposition of Aurora B at this locus. A phosphomimic mutant of H2AX at S121 interacts with activated Aurora B more efficiently than wild-type in vitro. Taken together, these results propose a model in which Aurora B-mediated H2AX-pS121 probably provide a platform for Aurora B autoactivation circuitry at centromeres and thus play a pivotal role in proper chromosome segregation.
Wars2 is a determinant of angiogenesis
Authors: Wang Mao , Sips Patrick , Khin Ester , Rotival Maxime , Sun Ximing , Ahmed Rizwan , Widjaja Anissa Anindya , Schafer Sebastian , Yusoff Permeen , Choksi Pervinder Kaur , Ko Nicole Shi Jie , Singh Manvendra K. , Epstein David , Guan Yuguang , Houštěk Josef , Mracek Tomas , Nuskova Hana , Mikell Brittney , Tan Jessie , Pesce Francesco , Kolar Frantisek , Bottolo Leonardo , Mancini Massimiliano , Hubner Norbert , Pravenec Michal , Petretto Enrico , MacRae Calum , Cook Stuart A
Published: July 2016

Coronary flow (CF) measured ex vivo is largely determined by capillary density that reflects angiogenic vessel formation in the heart in vivo. Here we exploit this relationship and show that CF in the rat is influenced by a locus on rat chromosome 2 that is also associated with cardiac capillary density. Mitochondrial tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase (Wars2), encoding an L53F protein variant within the ATP-binding motif, is prioritized as the candidate at the locus by integrating genomic data sets. WARS2(L53F) has low enzyme activity and inhibition of WARS2 in endothelial cells reduces angiogenesis. In the zebrafish, inhibition of wars2 results in trunk vessel deficiencies, disordered endocardial-myocardial contact and impaired heart function. Inhibition of Wars2 in the rat causes cardiac angiogenesis defects and diminished cardiac capillary density. Our data demonstrate a pro-angiogenic function for Wars2 both within and outside the heart that may have translational relevance given the association of WARS2 with common human diseases.
Effect of levodopa-carbidopa intestinal gel on resting tremors in patients with advanced Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Fernandez Hubert H , Robieson Weining Z , Chatamra Krai , Dubow Jordan , Eaton Susan , Benesh Janet A , Odin Per
Published: July 2016

Resting tremors occur in more than 70% of patients with advanced Parkinson’s disease (PD). PD patients with resting tremors are typically treated with oral dopaminergic therapy or non-dopaminergic agents. However, treatment response with these medications is inconsistent and often unsatisfactory. Levodopa-carbidopa intestinal gel (LCIG, also known in the United States as carbidopa-levodopa enteral suspension (CLES)), administered continuously by a portable pump via a percutaneous endoscopic gastrojejunostomy (PEG-J) tube, significantly improves motor complications in patients with advanced PD. This was a post hoc analysis of a large phase 3, 12-month, open-label study evaluating long-term safety and efficacy of LCIG via PEG-J tube (NCT00335153). Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale Part III Question 20 total scores at baseline, measuring resting tremors, were used to stratify patients into three subgroups (none, mild, or significant baseline resting tremors). Out of 354 enrolled patients, 286 had baseline and post-PEG-J assessments of resting tremors and were included in this analysis. At baseline the majority of patients (69%) had no resting tremors, whereas 13% had mild resting tremors, and 18% had significant resting tremors. A complete resolution in resting tremors after 12 months of LCIG treatment was reported for 78% and 70% of patients with mild and significant baseline resting tremors, respectively. Improvements in motor complications and quality of life occurred regardless of degree of baseline resting tremors. LCIG may provide more consistent and sustained improvements in resting tremors that were not well-controlled with optimized oral medication among patients with advanced PD.
Integrated network-diversity analyses suggest suppressive effect of Hodgkin’s lymphoma and slightly relieving effect of chemotherapy on human milk microbiome
Authors: Ma Zhanshan , Li Lianwei , Li Wendy , Li Jie , Chen Hongju
Published: July 2016

We aim to investigate the effects of Hodgkin’s lymphoma and the chemotherapy for treating the disease on the human milk microbiome through integrated network and community diversity analyses. Our analyses suggest that Hodgkin’s lymphoma seems to have a suppressing effect on the milk microbiome by lowering the milk microbial community diversity, as measured by the Hill numbers profiles. Although the diversity analysis did not reveal an effect of chemotherapy on community diversity, bacterial species interaction network analysis shows that chemotherapy may help to slightly restore the milk microbiome impacted by Hodgkin’s lymphoma through its influence on the interactions among species (or OTUs). We further constructed diversity-metabolites network, which suggests that the milk microbial diversity is positively correlated with some beneficial milk metabolites such as DHA (DocosaHexaenoic Acid), and that the diversity is negatively correlated with some potentially harmful metabolites such as Butanal. We hence postulate that higher milk microbial diversity should be a signature of healthy mothers and beneficial to infants. Finally, we constructed metabolites OTU correlation networks, from which we identified some special OTUs. These OTUs deserve further investigations given their apparent involvements in regulating the levels of critical milk metabolites such as DHA, Inositol and Butanal.
Effects of Water on Structure and Dynamics of Trehalose Glasses at Low Water Contents and its Relationship to Preservation Outcomes
Authors: Weng Lindong , Ziaei Shima , Elliott Gloria D.
Published: July 2016

Dry preservation of biologics in sugar glasses is regarded as a promising alternative to conventional cryopreservation. Evidence from various studies has suggested that there is a critical range of water content beyond which the viability of preserved biologics can be greatly compromised. In this study the viability of T-cells was determined as a function of end water content after microwave-assisted drying in trehalose solutions. Hydrogen-bonding and clustering phenomena in trehalose solutions of the same moisture content were also evaluated using molecular dynamics simulation. Post-rehydration viability decreased dramatically within the range of 0.1–1 gH2O/gdw. Molecular modeling revealed that as the water content approached 0.1 gH2O/gdw the matrix formed a large interconnected trehalose skeleton with a minimal number of bound water molecules scattered in the bulk. The diffusion coefficients of trehalose oxygen atoms most distant from the glycosidic linkage fluctuated around 7.5 × 10−14 m2/s within the range of 0.02–0.1 gH2O/gdw and increased again to ~1.13 × 10−13 m2/s at 0.01 gH2O/gdw and below due to the loss of water in the free volume between trehalose molecules. These insights can guide the optimal selection of final moisture contents to advance dry preservation methods.
Effect of caesarean section on maternal and foetal outcomes in acute fatty liver of pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Hong-Yan , Jiang Qing , Shi Hao , Xu Yun-Qing , Shi Ai-Chao , Sun Yuan-Li , Li Jian , Ning Qin , Shen Guan-Xin
Published: July 2016

Several studies have reported a positive association between caesarean section for expeditious pregnancy termination and perinatal outcomes in acute fatty liver of pregnancy (AFLP); however, the risks remain unclear and independent studies have reported conflicting findings. In this meta-analysis, we aimed to confirm the relationship between caesarean section and perinatal outcomes in AFLP. The PubMed, Embase, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases were searched (until July 17, 2015) for observational clinical studies focusing on the association between caesarean section and perinatal outcomes in AFLP. Data were extracted and processed independently by 2 authors. We also compared caesarean section with vaginal delivery to further investigate this relationship. We observed that 2 of the 3 primary outcomes in caesarean section exhibited positive effects—the maternal mortality rate was 44% lower (relative risk [RR], 0.56 [0.41–0.76]) and perinatal mortality rate was also reduced (RR, 0.52 [0.38–0.71]), compared to those for vaginal delivery. We did not find any associations between caesarean section and perinatal outcomes in AFLP in terms of neonatal mortality type and maternal multiple organ complications. These findings emphasise the significant prognostic value and clinical implications of caesarean section in AFLP, and suggest that the adverse outcomes should be reduced.
Aero-Thermo-Dynamic Mass Analysis
Authors: Shiba Kota , Yoshikawa Genki
Published: July 2016

Each gas molecule has its own molecular weight, while such a microscopic characteristic is generally inaccessible, and thus, it is measured indirectly through e.g. ionization in conventional mass analysis. Here, we present a novel approach to the direct measurement of molecular weight through a nanoarchitectonic combination of aerodynamics, thermodynamics, and mechanics, transducing microscopic events into macroscopic phenomena. It is confirmed that this approach can provide molecular weight of virtually any gas or vaporizable liquid sample in real-time without ionization. Demonstrations through analytical calculations, numerical simulations, and experiments verify the validity and versatility of the novel mass analysis realized by a simple setup with a flexible object (e.g. with a bare cantilever and even with a business card) placed in a laminar jet. Owing to its unique and simple working principle, this aero-thermo-dynamic mass analysis (AMA) can be integrated into various analytical devices, production lines, and consumer mobile platforms, opening new chapters in aerodynamics, thermodynamics, mechanics, and mass analysis.
Effects of shrub encroachment on soil organic carbon in global grasslands
Authors: Li He , Shen Haihua , Chen Leiyi , Liu Taoyu , Hu Huifeng , Zhao Xia , Zhou Luhong , Zhang Pujin , Fang Jingyun
Published: July 2016

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of shrub encroachment on soil organic carbon (SOC) content at broad scales and its controls. We conducted a meta-analysis using paired control data of shrub-encroached grassland (SEG) vs. non-SEG collected from 142 studies worldwide. SOC contents (0–50 cm) were altered by shrub encroachment, with changes ranging from −50% to + 300%, with an effect size of 0.15 (p < 0.01). The SOC contents increased in semi-arid and humid regions, and showed a greater rate of increase in grassland encroached by leguminous shrubs than by non-legumes. The SOC content decreased in silty and clay soils but increased in sand, sandy loam and sandy clay loam. The SOC content increment was significantly positively correlated with precipitation and temperature as well as with soil bulk density but significantly negatively correlated with soil total nitrogen. We conclude the main effects of shrub encroachment would be to increase topsoil organic carbon content. As structural equation model revealed, soils properties seem to be the primary factors responsible for the extent of the changes, coarse textured soils having a greater capacity than fine textured soils to increase the SOC content. This increased effect appears to be secondarily enhanced by climate and plant elements.
Controllable light capsules employing modified Bessel-Gauss beams
Authors: Gong Lei , Liu Weiwei , Zhao Qian , Ren Yuxuan , Qiu Xingze , Zhong Mincheng , Li Yinmei
Published: July 2016

We report, in theory and experiment, on a novel class of controlled light capsules with nearly perfect darkness, directly employing intrinsic properties of modified Bessel-Gauss beams. These beams are able to naturally create three-dimensional bottle-shaped region during propagation as long as the parameters are properly chosen. Remarkably, the optical bottle can be controlled to demonstrate various geometries through tuning the beam parameters, thereby leading to an adjustable light capsule. We provide a detailed insight into the theoretical origin and characteristics of the light capsule derived from modified Bessel-Gauss beams. Moreover, a binary digital micromirror device (DMD) based scheme is first employed to shape the bottle beams by precise amplitude and phase manipulation. Further, we demonstrate their ability for optical trapping of core-shell magnetic microparticles, which play a particular role in biomedical research, with holographic optical tweezers. Therefore, our observations provide a new route for generating and controlling bottle beams and will widen the potentials for micromanipulation of absorbing particles, aerosols or even individual atoms.
Direct radiocarbon dating and genetic analyses on the purported Neanderthal mandible from the Monti Lessini (Italy)
Authors: Talamo Sahra , Hajdinjak Mateja , Mannino Marcello A. , Fasani Leone , Welker Frido , Martini Fabio , Romagnoli Francesca , Zorzin Roberto , Meyer Matthias , Hublin Jean-Jacques
Published: July 2016

Anatomically modern humans replaced Neanderthals in Europe around 40,000 years ago. The demise of the Neanderthals and the nature of the possible relationship with anatomically modern humans has captured our imagination and stimulated research for more than a century now. Recent chronological studies suggest a possible overlap between Neanderthals and anatomically modern humans of more than 5,000 years. Analyses of ancient genome sequences from both groups have shown that they interbred multiple times, including in Europe. A potential place of interbreeding is the notable Palaeolithic site of Riparo Mezzena in Northern Italy. In order to improve our understanding of prehistoric occupation at Mezzena, we analysed the human mandible and several cranial fragments from the site using radiocarbon dating, ancient DNA, ZooMS and isotope analyses. We also performed a more detailed investigation of the lithic assemblage of layer I. Surprisingly we found that the Riparo Mezzena mandible is not from a Neanderthal but belonged to an anatomically modern human. Furthermore, we found no evidence for the presence of Neanderthal remains among 11 of the 13 cranial and post-cranial fragments re-investigated in this study.
Cathepsin S attenuates endosomal EGFR signalling: A mechanical rationale for the combination of cathepsin S and EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Authors: Huang Chien-Chang , Lee Cheng-Che , Lin Hsiao-Han , Chang Jang-Yang
Published: July 2016

EGF-mediated EGFR endocytosis plays a crucial role in the attenuation of EGFR activation by sorting from early endosomes to late endosomes and transporting them into lysosomes for the final proteolytic degradation. We previously observed that cathepsin S (CTSS) inhibition induces tumour cell autophagy through the EGFR-mediated signalling pathway. In this study, we further clarified the relationship between CTSS activities and EGFR signalling regulation. Our results revealed that CTSS can regulate EGFR signalling by facilitating EGF-mediated EGFR degradation. CTSS inhibition delayed the EGFR degradation process and caused EGFR accumulation in the late endosomes at the perinuclear region, which provides spatial compartments for prolonged EGFR and sustained downstream signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 and AKT signalling. Notably, cellular apoptosis was markedly enhanced by combining treatment with the EGFR inhibitor Iressa and CTSS inhibitor 6r. The data not only reveal a biological role of CTSS in EGFR signalling regulation but also evidence a rationale for its clinical evaluation in the combination of CTSS and EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
High-Resolution Group Quantization Phase Processing Method in Radio Frequency Measurement Range
Authors: Du Baoqiang , Feng Dazheng , Tang Yaohua , Geng Xin , Zhang Duo , Cai Chaofeng , Wan Maoquan , Yang Zhigang
Published: July 2016

Aiming at the more complex frequency translation, the longer response time and the limited measurement precision in the traditional phase processing, a high-resolution phase processing method by group quantization higher than 100 fs level is proposed in radio frequency measurement range. First, the phase quantization is used as a step value to quantize every phase difference in a group by using the fixed phase relationships between different frequencies signals. The group quantization is formed by the results of the quantized phase difference. In the light of frequency drift mainly caused by phase noise of measurement device, a regular phase shift of the group quantization is produced, which results in the phase coincidence of two comparing signals which obtain high-resolution measurement. Second, in order to achieve the best coincidences pulse, a subtle delay is initiatively used to reduce the width of the coincidences fuzzy area according to the transmission characteristics of the coincidences in the specific medium. Third, a series of feature coincidences pulses of fuzzy area can be captured by logic gate to achieve the best phase coincidences information for the improvement of the measurement precision. The method provides a novel way to precise time and frequency measurement.
Neuronal TRPV1 activation regulates alveolar bone resorption by suppressing osteoclastogenesis via CGRP
Authors: Takahashi Naoki , Matsuda Yumi , Sato Keisuke , de Jong Petrus R. , Bertin Samuel , Tabeta Koichi , Yamazaki Kazuhisa
Published: July 2016

The transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channel is abundantly expressed in peripheral sensory neurons where it acts as an important polymodal cellular sensor for heat, acidic pH, capsaicin and other noxious stimuli. The oral cavity is densely innervated by afferent sensory neurons and is a highly specialized organ that protects against infections as well as physical, chemical and thermal stresses in its capacity as the first part of the digestive system. While the function of TRPV1 in sensory neurons has been intensively studied in other organs, its physiological role in periodontal tissues is unclear. In this study we found that Trpv1−/− mice developed severe bone loss in an experimental model of periodontitis. Chemical ablation of TRPV1-expressing sensory neurons recapitulated the phenotype of Trpv1−/− mice, suggesting a functional link between neuronal TRPV1 signaling and periodontal bone loss. TRPV1 activation in gingival nerves induced production of the neuropeptide, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and CGRP treatment inhibited osteoclastogenesis in vitro. Oral administration of the TRPV1 agonist, capsaicin, suppressed ligature-induced bone loss in mice with fewer tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)-positive cells in alveolar bone. These results suggest that neuronal TRPV1 signaling in periodontal tissue is crucial for the regulation of osteoclastogenesis via the neuropeptide CGRP.
Construction of high-density genetic linkage map and identification of flowering-time QTLs in orchardgrass using SSRs and SLAF-seq
Authors: Zhao Xinxin , Huang Linkai , Zhang Xinquan , Wang Jianping , Yan Defei , Li Ji , Tang Lu , Li Xiaolong , Shi Tongwei
Published: July 2016

Orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.) is one of the most economically important perennial, cool-season forage species grown and pastured worldwide. High-density genetic linkage mapping is a valuable and effective method for exploring complex quantitative traits. In this study, we developed 447,177 markers based on SLAF-seq and used them to perform a comparative genomics analysis. Perennial ryegrass sequences were the most similar (5.02%) to orchardgrass sequences. A high-density linkage map of orchardgrass was constructed using 2,467 SLAF markers and 43 SSRs, which were distributed on seven linkage groups spanning 715.77 cM. The average distance between adjacent markers was 0.37 cM. Based on phenotyping in four environments, 11 potentially significant quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for two target traits–heading date (HD) and flowering time (FT)–were identified and positioned on linkage groups LG1, LG3 and LG5. Significant QTLs explained 8.20–27.00% of the total phenotypic variation, with the LOD ranging from 3.85–12.21. Marker167780 and Marker139469 were associated with FT and HD at the same location (Ya’an) over two different years. The utility of SLAF markers for rapid generation of genetic maps and QTL analysis has been demonstrated for heading date and flowering time in a global forage grass.
Assembly PCR synthesis of optimally designed, compact, multi-responsive promoters suited to gene therapy application
Authors: Mohamed H. , Chernajovsky Y. , Gould D.
Published: July 2016

Gene therapy has the potential to provide innovative treatments for genetic and non-genetic diseases, with the ability to auto-regulate expression levels of therapeutic molecules so that they are produced locally and in direct response to disease activity. Generating disease responsive gene therapy vectors requires knowledge of the activation profile of transcription factors (TFs) during active disease, in order to assemble binding sites for these TFs into synthetic promoters, which can be appropriately activated by the disease process. In this study, we optimised a PCR random assembly approach to generate promoters with optimal spacing between TF binding sites (TFBSs) and their distance from the TATA box. In promoters with optimal spacing, it was possible to demonstrate activation by individual transcription pathways and either additive or synergistic promoter activation when transfected cells were treated with combined stimuli. The kinetics and sensitivity of promoter activation was further explored in transduced cells and when lentivirus was directly delivered to mouse paws a synthetic promoter demonstrated excellent activation by real-time imaging in response to local inflammation.
Peroxiredoxin 1 interacts with and blocks the redox factor APE1 from activating interleukin-8 expression
Authors: Nassour Hassan , Wang Zhiqiang , Saad Amine , Papaluca Arturo , Brosseau Nicolas , Affar El Bachir , Alaoui-Jamali Moulay A. , Ramotar Dindial
Published: July 2016

APE1 is an essential DNA repair protein that also possesses the ability to regulate transcription. It has a unique cysteine residue C65, which maintains the reduce state of several transcriptional activators such as NF-κB. How APE1 is being recruited to execute the various biological functions remains unknown. Herein, we show that APE1 interacts with a novel partner PRDX1, a peroxidase that can also prevent oxidative damage to proteins by serving as a chaperone. PRDX1 knockdown did not interfere with APE1 expression level or its DNA repair activities. However, PRDX1 knockdown greatly facilitates APE1 detection within the nucleus by indirect immunofluorescence analysis, even though APE1 level was unchanged. The loss of APE1 interaction with PRDX1 promotes APE1 redox function to activate binding of the transcription factor NF-κB onto the promoter of a target gene, the proinflammatory chemokine IL-8 involved in cancer invasion and metastasis, resulting in its upregulation. Depletion of APE1 blocked the upregulation of IL-8 in the PRDX1 knockdown cells. Our findings suggest that the interaction of PRDX1 with APE1 represents a novel anti-inflammatory function of PRDX1, whereby the association safeguards APE1 from reducing transcription factors and activating superfluous gene expression, which otherwise could trigger cancer invasion and metastasis.
Identification of cyclins A1, E1 and vimentin as downstream targets of heme oxygenase-1 in vascular endothelial growth factor-mediated angiogenesis
Authors: Bauer Andrea , Mylroie Hayley , Thornton C. Clare , Calay Damien , Birdsey Graeme M. , Kiprianos Allan P. , Wilson Garrick K. , Soares Miguel P. , Yin Xiaoke , Mayr Manuel , Randi Anna M. , Mason Justin C.
Published: July 2016

Angiogenesis is an essential physiological process and an important factor in disease pathogenesis. However, its exploitation as a clinical target has achieved limited success and novel molecular targets are required. Although heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) acts downstream of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) to modulate angiogenesis, knowledge of the mechanisms involved remains limited. We set out identify novel HO-1 targets involved in angiogenesis. HO-1 depletion attenuated VEGF-induced human endothelial cell (EC) proliferation and tube formation. The latter response suggested a role for HO-1 in EC migration and indeed HO-1 siRNA negatively affected directional migration of EC towards VEGF; a phenotype reversed by HO-1 over-expression. EC from Hmox1−/− mice behaved similarly. Microarray analysis of HO-1-depleted and control EC exposed to VEGF identified cyclins A1 and E1 as HO-1 targets. Migrating HO-1-deficient EC showed increased p27, reduced cyclin A1 and attenuated cyclin-dependent kinase 2 activity. In vivo, cyclin A1 siRNA inhibited VEGF-driven angiogenesis, a response reversed by Ad-HO-1. Proteomics identified structural protein vimentin as an additional VEGF-HO-1 target. HO-1 depletion inhibited VEGF-induced calpain activity and vimentin cleavage, while vimentin silencing attenuated HO-1-driven proliferation. Thus, vimentin and cyclins A1 and E1 represent VEGF-activated HO-1-dependent targets important for VEGF-driven angiogenesis.
Spatial k-dispersion engineering of spoof surface plasmon polaritons for customized absorption
Authors: Pang Yongqiang , Wang Jiafu , Ma Hua , Feng Mingde , Li Yongfeng , Xu Zhuo , Xia Song , Qu Shaobo
Published: July 2016

Absorption of electromagnetic waves in a medium is generally manipulated by controlling the frequency dispersion of constitutive parameters. However, it is still challenging to gain the desired constitutive parameters for customized absorption over a broad frequency range. Here, by virtue of spoof surface plasmonic polaritons (SPPs), we demonstrate capabilities of the spatialk-dispersion engineering for producing the customized broadband absorption. Incident waves can be efficiently converted to the spoof SPPs by plasmonic arrays and their propagation and/or absorption can be controlled by engineering the spatial dispersion ofk-vector. Based on this feature, we show how such concept is employed to achieve broadband as well as frequency-selective broadband absorptions as examples. It is expected that the proposed concept can be extended to other manipulations of propagating electromagnetic waves over a broad frequency range.
Zinc-modified titanium surface enhances osteoblast differentiation of dental pulp stem cells in vitro
Authors: Yusa Kazuyuki , Yamamoto Osamu , Takano Hiroshi , Fukuda Masayuki , Iino Mitsuyoshi
Published: July 2016

Zinc is an essential trace element that plays an important role in differentiation of osteoblasts and bone modeling. This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the osteoblast differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) on zinc-modified titanium (Zn-Ti) that releases zinc ions from its surface. Based on real-time PCR, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and Western blot analysis data, we investigated osteoblast differentiation of DPSCs cultured on Zn-Ti and controls. DPSCs cultured on Zn-Ti exhibited significantly up-regulated gene expression levels of osteoblast-related genes of type I collagen (Col I), bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2), ALP, runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), osteopontin (OPN) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF A), as compared with controls. We also investigated extracellular matrix (ECM) mineralization by Alizarin Red S (ARS) staining and found that Zn-Ti significantly promoted ECM mineralization when compared with controls. These findings suggest that the combination of Zn-Ti and DPSCs provides a novel approach for bone regeneration therapy.
Mie Resonance-Modulated Spatial Distributions of Photogenerated Carriers in Poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl)/Silicon Nanopillars
Authors: Kim Eunah , Cho Yunae , Sohn Ahrum , Hwang Heewon , Lee Y. U. , Kim Kyungkon , Park Hyeong-Ho , Kim Joondong , Wu J. W. , Kim Dong-Wook
Published: July 2016

Organic/silicon hybrid solar cells have great potential as low-cost, high-efficiency photovoltaic devices. The superior light trapping capability, mediated by the optical resonances, of the organic/silicon hybrid nanostructure-based cells enhances their optical performance. In this work, we fabricated Si nanopillar (NP) arrays coated with organic semiconductor, poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl), layers. Experimental and calculated optical properties of the samples showed that Mie-resonance strongly concentrated incoming light in the NPs. Spatial mapping of surface photovoltage, i.e., changes in the surface potential under illumination, using Kelvin probe force microscopy enabled us to visualize the local behavior of the photogenerated carriers in our samples. Under red light, surface photovoltage was much larger (63 meV) on the top surface of a NP than on a planar sample (13 meV), which demonstrated that the confined light in the NPs produced numerous carriers within the NPs. Since the silicon NPs provide pathways for efficient carrier transportation, high collection probability of the photogenerated carriers near the NPs can be expected. This suggests that the optical resonance in organic/silicon hybrid nanostructures benefits not only broad-band light trapping but also efficient carrier collection.
Fabricating of high-performance functional graphene fibers for micro-capacitive energy storage
Authors: Fan Tianju , Zhao Chunyan , Xiao Zhuangqing , Guo Fangjun , Cai Kaiyu , Lin Hai , Liu Yidong , Meng Hong , Min Yong , Epstein Arthur J.
Published: July 2016

Although graphene is a typical two dimensional materials, it has converted to multi-dimensional materials with many unique properties. As an example, the one dimensional graphene fiber is fabricated by utilizing ionic liquid as coagulation and functional diamines as cross-linkers to connect graphene oxide layers. The fibers show excellent mechanical properties and superior electrical performance. The tensile strength of the resultant fibers reaches ~729 MPa after a super high temperature thermal annealing treatment at 2800 °C. Additionally, quasi-solid-state flexible micro-capacitors are fabricated with promising result on energy storage. The device show a specific volumetric capacity as high as ~225 F/cm3 (measured at 103.5 mA cm−3 in a three-electrode cell), as well as a long cycle life of 2000 times. The initial results indicate that these fibers will be a good candidate to replace energy storage devices for miniaturized portable electronic applications.