bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Homotopical patch theory
Authors: ANGIULI CARLO , MOREHOUSE EDWARD , LICATA DANIEL R. , HARPER ROBERT
Published: September 2016

Homotopy type theory is an extension of Martin-Löf type theory, based on a correspondence with homotopy theory and higher category theory. In homotopy type theory, the propositional equality type is proof-relevant, and corresponds to paths in a space. This allows for a new class of datatypes, called higher inductive types, which are specified by constructors not only for points but also for paths. In this paper, we consider a programming application of higher inductive types. Version control systems such as Darcs are based on the notion of patches—syntactic representations of edits to a repository. We show how patch theory can be developed in homotopy type theory. Our formulation separates formal theories of patches from their interpretation as edits to repositories. A patch theory is presented as a higher inductive type. Models of a patch theory are given by maps out of that type, which, being functors, automatically preserve the structure of patches. Several standard tools of homotopy theory come into play, demonstrating the use of these methods in a practical programming context.
Randomized Controlled Trial of a Cognitive Narrative Crisis Intervention for Bereavement in Primary Healthcare
Authors: Andrade Ana Sofia , Moreira Margarida , Sá Mónica , Pacheco Duarte , Almeida Vera , Rocha José Carlos
Published: September 2016

Background and Aims: As there are known risks of retraumatization through bereavement crisis interventions, we tailored a new intervention lowering the degree of direct emotional activation. However, we need some evidence on the effects of depression and psychotraumatic symptoms between 1 and 6 months after a loss. Method: We conducted a randomized controlled trial with two groups: control group (n = 18) and experimental group (n = 11) in two assessments (1 and 6 months after loss); both included a semi-structured interview (Socio-Demographic Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory and the Impact of Events Scale-Revised–IES-R). The experimental group had a cognitive-narrative program with four sessions: recalling; cognitive and emotional subjectivization; metaphorization; and projecting sessions. Results: Participants in the experimental and control groups have lower levels of depression and traumatic stress 6 months after a loss. Statistically significant results in emotional numbing IES-R sub-scale are observed. Conclusions: A brief narrative-based cost-effective intervention has a positive effect on depression, controlling the traumatic stress and time after a loss.
A qualitative study of consumer perceptions and use of traffic light food labelling in Ecuador
Authors: Freire Wilma B , Waters William F , Rivas-Mariño Gabriela , Nguyen Tien , Rivas Patricio
Published: September 2016

Objective

To analyse patterns of knowledge, comprehension, attitudes and practices regarding the traffic light label placed on processed food packages to inform Ecuadorian consumers about levels of added fat, sugar and salt.

Design

Twenty-one focus group discussions organized by age group, sex and place of residence. Interviews with representatives of companies that manufacture or market processed foods. Analysis of regulations and structured observations of processed food labels.

Setting

Cities and towns in Ecuador’s coastal, highland and eastern lowland regions.

Subjects

One hundred and seventy-eight participants in twenty-one focus group discussions and nine key informants.

Results

Focus group participants knew about the traffic light label and understood the information it conveys, but not all changed their attitudes and practices related to the purchase and consumption of processed foods. Children, adolescents and adult males reported using the information infrequently; adolescents interested in health and adult women used the label the most to select products. Representatives of companies that manufacture or market processed foods generally opposed the policy, stating that the information is misleading. Nevertheless, some companies have reduced levels of added fat, sugar or salt in their products.

Conclusions

The traffic light label is an effective tool for conveying complex information. Its potential contribution to reduce consumption of products with high levels of fat, sugar and salt could be enhanced by promoting healthy diets among consumers who have not changed purchasing and consumption behaviour, by placing the label on front panels and by monitoring the production and marketing of processed foods.
Focused X-Ray Histological Analyses to Reveal Asbestos Fibers and Bodies in Lungs and Pleura of Asbestos-Exposed Subjects
Authors: Pascolo Lorella , Gianoncelli Alessandra , Rizzardi Clara , de Jonge Martin , Howard Daryl , Paterson David , Cammisuli Francesca , Salomé Murielle , De Paoli Paolo , Melato Mauro , Canzonieri Vincenzo
Published: September 2016

Asbestos bodies are the histological hallmarks of asbestos exposure. Both conventional and advanced techniques are used to evaluate abundance and composition in histological samples. We previously reported the possibility of using synchrotron X-ray fluorescence microscopy (XFM) for analyzing the chemical composition of asbestos bodies directly in lung tissue samples. Here we applied a high-performance synchrotron X-ray fluorescence (XRF) set-up that could allow new protocols for fast monitoring of the occurrence of asbestos bodies in large histological sections, improving investigation of the related chemical changes. A combination of synchrotron X-ray transmission and fluorescence microscopy techniques at different energies at three distinct synchrotrons was used to characterize asbestos in paraffinated lung tissues. The fast chemical imaging of the XFM beamline (Australian Synchrotron) demonstrates that asbestos bodies can be rapidly and efficiently identified as co-localization of high calcium and iron, the most abundant elements of these formations inside tissues (Fe up to 10% w/w; Ca up to 1%). By following iron presence, we were also able to hint at small asbestos fibers in pleural spaces. XRF at lower energy and at higher spatial resolution was afterwards performed to better define small fibers. These analyses may predispose for future protocols to be set with laboratory instruments.
Adolescent Antisocial Behavior Explained by Combining Stress-Related	Parameters
Authors: Platje Evelien , Jansen Lucres M. C. , Vermeiren Robert R. J. M. , Doreleijers Theo A. H. , van Lier Pol A. C. , Koot Hans M. , Meeus Wim H. J. , Branje Suzan J. T. , Popma Arne
Published: September 2016

Abstract. Many stress-related parameters have been associated with antisocial behavior, including low cortisol awakening responses (CAR), as well as low cortisol and alpha-amylase reactivity to stress. These parameters reflect different, yet interrelated components of the stress system, yet it remains to be determined whether they exert joint or independent effects. Therefore, this study examined them in concert, as this may offer a better explanation of the psychophysiological mechanism’s underlying antisocial behavior. Antisocial behavior was assessed through self-report by 197 general population boys and girls (Mage = 17.31, SD = 0.44). The CAR was assessed, as well as cortisol and alpha-amylase reactivity to a public speaking task. Neither stress-related parameter was independently related to antisocial behavior. The best explanation was provided by a CAR × Cortisol reactivity interaction, indicating that in youth with a low CAR, antisocial behavior was positively associated with cortisol reactivity. In youth with a high CAR, no association between antisocial behavior and cortisol reactivity was found. Between cortisol and alpha-amylase reactivity a trend toward an interaction appeared, indicating a negative association between cortisol reactivity and antisocial behavior in those with low alpha-amylase reactivity, and a positive association in those with high alpha-amylase reactivity. These findings indicate that in order to understand the mechanisms underlying antisocial behavior, the stress system should be studied comprehensively rather than focus on single parameters. Particularly cortisol parameters appear to be jointly related to antisocial behavior, the additional value of alpha-amylase reactivity to cortisol reactivity may however be limited.
Vagally Mediated Heart Rate Variability Promotes the Perception of	Paradoxical Pain
Authors: Scheuren Raymonde , Sütterlin Stefan , Anton Fernand
Published: September 2016

Abstract. Self-regulation mechanisms are governed by prefrontal inhibitory processes and play a crucial role in the modulation of pain. In the present study the thermal grill paradigm was used to investigate the association of vagally mediated resting heart rate variability, a psychophysiological marker of trait self-regulatory capacity, with paradoxical pain sensations induced by non-noxious stimulation. This thermal grill illusion is only perceived by part of the tested individuals. The mechanisms underlying the observed interindividual differences in paradoxical pain sensitivity are largely unknown. During the experimental task, a temperature combination of 15 °C and 41 °C was set at the glass tubes of the thermal grill. The 52 healthy participants placed their dominant hand on the grill for a duration of one min. The magnitude of sensory and affective pain sensations perceived during stimulation was assessed with numerical rating scales. Before stimulation, a short-term electrocardiogram was recorded to compute vagally mediated heart rate variability at rest. Logistic regression analyses revealed that participants with higher vagal tone were significantly more likely to perceive the thermal grill illusion than subjects displaying lower resting heart rate variability. Paradoxical pain sensations were primarily predicted by normalized respiratory sinus arrhythmia. Our results confirm that the magnitude of vagally mediated resting heart rate variability is associated with the individual disposition to illusive pain perceptions. Since the latter is considered to be a marker of trait self-regulation ability, the present findings may corroborate and complement previous evidence for an impact of psychological characteristics on paradoxical pain sensitivity.
Global Life Satisfaction in Adolescence
Authors: Marcionetti Jenny , Rossier Jerôme
Published: September 2016

Abstract. Positive levels of global life satisfaction are associated with a broad range of positive personal, psychological, and social outcomes both in the present and future. However, for adolescents, little is known about the underlying personal characteristics that predict global life satisfaction. Thus, the aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between personality traits, self-esteem, self-efficacy, and global life satisfaction in a sample of 437 Swiss adolescents attending the second last year of compulsory school. Results have shown that conscientiousness, neuroticism, extraversion, self-esteem, and self-efficacy are significantly associated with global life satisfaction. Moreover, self-esteem seems to be a mediator of the relationship between personality traits and global life satisfaction, suggesting that it might be considered as a process variable regulating behaviors, feelings, and thoughts that are related to personality dimensions.
Emotional Variability Predicts Tiredness in Daily	Life
Authors: Mill Aire , Realo Anu , Allik Jüri
Published: September 2016

Abstract. Intraindividual variability, along with the more frequently studied between-person variability, has been argued to be one of the basic building blocks of emotional experience. The aim of the current study is to examine whether intraindividual variability in affect predicts tiredness in daily life. Intraindividual variability in affect was studied with the experience sampling method in a group of 110 participants (aged between 19 and 84 years) during 14 consecutive days on seven randomly determined occasions per day. The results suggest that affect variability is a stable construct over time and situations. Our findings also demonstrate that intraindividual variability in affect has a unique role in predicting increased levels of tiredness at the momentary level as well at the level of individuals.
Three-dimensional protonic conductivity in porous organic cage solids
Authors: Liu Ming , Chen Linjiang , Lewis Scott , Chong Samantha Y. , Little Marc A. , Hasell Tom , Aldous Iain M. , Brown Craig M. , Smith Martin W. , Morrison Carole A. , Hardwick Laurence J. , Cooper Andrew I.
Published: September 2016

Proton conduction is a fundamental process in biology and in devices such as proton exchange membrane fuel cells. To maximize proton conduction, three-dimensional conduction pathways are preferred over one-dimensional pathways, which prevent conduction in two dimensions. Many crystalline porous solids to date show one-dimensional proton conduction. Here we report porous molecular cages with proton conductivities (up to 10−3 S cm−1 at high relative humidity) that compete with extended metal-organic frameworks. The structure of the organic cage imposes a conduction pathway that is necessarily three-dimensional. The cage molecules also promote proton transfer by confining the water molecules while being sufficiently flexible to allow hydrogen bond reorganization. The proton conduction is explained at the molecular level through a combination of proton conductivity measurements, crystallography, molecular simulations and quasi-elastic neutron scattering. These results provide a starting point for high-temperature, anhydrous proton conductors through inclusion of guests other than water in the cage pores.
De novo sequencing, assembly and analysis of eight different transcriptomes from the Malayan pangolin
Authors: Mohamed Yusoff Aini , Tan Tze King , Hari Ranjeev , Koepfli Klaus-Peter , Wee Wei Yee , Antunes Agostinho , Sitam Frankie Thomas , Rovie-Ryan Jeffrine Japning , Karuppannan Kayal Vizi , Wong Guat Jah , Lipovich Leonard , Warren Wesley C. , O’Brien Stephen J. , Choo Siew Woh
Published: September 2016

Pangolins are scale-covered mammals, containing eight endangered species. Maintaining pangolins in captivity is a significant challenge, in part because little is known about their genetics. Here we provide the first large-scale sequencing of the critically endangered Manis javanica transcriptomes from eight different organs using Illumina HiSeq technology, yielding ~75 Giga bases and 89,754 unigenes. We found some unigenes involved in the insect hormone biosynthesis pathway and also 747 lipids metabolism-related unigenes that may be insightful to understand the lipid metabolism system in pangolins. Comparative analysis between M. javanica and other mammals revealed many pangolin-specific genes significantly over-represented in stress-related processes, cell proliferation and external stimulus, probably reflecting the traits and adaptations of the analyzed pregnant female M. javanica. Our study provides an invaluable resource for future functional works that may be highly relevant for the conservation of pangolins.
Platelets confound the measurement of extracellular miRNA in archived plasma
Authors: Mitchell Adam J. , Gray Warren D. , Hayek Salim S. , Ko Yi-An , Thomas Sheena , Rooney Kim , Awad Mosaab , Roback John D. , Quyyumi Arshed , Searles Charles D.
Published: September 2016

Extracellular miRNAs are detectable in biofluids and represent a novel class of disease biomarker. Although many studies have utilized archived plasma for miRNA biomarker discovery, the effects of processing and storage have not been rigorously studied. Previous reports have suggested plasma samples are commonly contaminated by platelets, significantly confounding the measurement of extracellular miRNA, which was thought to be easily addressed by additional post-thaw plasma processing. In a case-control study of archived plasma, we noted a significant correlation between miRNA levels and platelet counts despite post-thaw processing. We thus examined the effects of a single freeze/thaw cycle on microparticles (MPs) and miRNA levels, and show that a single freeze/thaw cycle of plasma dramatically increases the number of platelet-derived MPs, contaminates the extracellular miRNA pool, and profoundly affects the levels of miRNAs detected. The measurement of extracellular miRNAs in archived samples is critically dependent on the removal of residual platelets prior to freezing plasma samples. Many previous clinical studies of extracellular miRNA in archived plasma should be interpreted with caution and future studies should avoid the effects of platelet contamination.
Regulation of Mitoflash Biogenesis and Signaling by Mitochondrial Dynamics
Authors: Li Wenwen , Sun Tao , Liu Beibei , Wu Di , Qi Wenfeng , Wang Xianhua , Ma Qi , Cheng Heping
Published: September 2016

Mitochondria are highly dynamic organelles undergoing constant network reorganization and exhibiting stochastic signaling events in the form of mitochondrial flashes (mitoflashes). Here we investigate whether and how mitochondrial network dynamics regulate mitoflash biogenesis and signaling. We found that mitoflash frequency was largely invariant when network fragmentized or redistributed in the absence of mitofusin (Mfn) 1, Mfn2, or Kif5b. However, Opa1 deficiency decreased spontaneous mitoflash frequency due to superimposing changes in respiratory function, whereas mitoflash response to non-metabolic stimulation was unchanged despite network fragmentation. In Drp1- or Mff-deficient cells whose mitochondria hyperfused into a single whole-cell reticulum, the frequency of mitoflashes of regular amplitude and duration was again unaltered, although brief and low-amplitude “miniflashes” emerged because of improved detection ability. As the network reorganized, however, the signal mass of mitoflash signaling was dynamically regulated in accordance with the degree of network connectivity. These findings demonstrate a novel functional role of mitochondrial network dynamics and uncover a magnitude- rather than frequency-modulatory mechanism in the regulation of mitoflash signaling. In addition, our data support a stochastic trigger model for the ignition of mitoflashes.
Annual and seasonal spatial models for nitrogen oxides in Tehran, Iran
Authors: Amini Heresh , Taghavi-Shahri Seyed-Mahmood , Henderson Sarah B. , Hosseini Vahid , Hassankhany Hossein , Naderi Maryam , Ahadi Solmaz , Schindler Christian , Künzli Nino , Yunesian Masud
Published: September 2016

Very few land use regression (LUR) models have been developed for megacities in low- and middle-income countries, but such models are needed to facilitate epidemiologic research on air pollution. We developed annual and seasonal LUR models for ambient oxides of nitrogen (NO, NO2, and NOX) in the Middle Eastern city of Tehran, Iran, using 2010 data from 23 fixed monitoring stations. A novel systematic algorithm was developed for spatial modeling. The R2values for the LUR models ranged from 0.69 to 0.78 for NO, 0.64 to 0.75 for NO2, and 0.61 to 0.79 for NOx. The most predictive variables were: distance to the traffic access control zone; distance to primary schools; green space; official areas; bridges; and slope. The annual average concentrations of all pollutants were high, approaching those reported for megacities in Asia. At 1000 randomly-selected locations the correlations between cooler and warmer season estimates were 0.64 for NO, 0.58 for NOX, and 0.30 for NO2. Seasonal differences in spatial patterns of pollution are likely driven by differences in source contributions and meteorology. These models provide a basis for understanding long-term exposures and chronic health effects of air pollution in Tehran, where such research has been limited.
Techniques of TIPS in the treatment of liver cirrhosis combined with incompletely occlusive main portal vein thrombosis
Authors: Zhao Mengfei , Yue Zhendong , Zhao Hongwei , Wang Lei , Fan Zhenhua , He Fuliang , Yao Jiannan , Dong Xiaoqun , Liu Fuquan
Published: September 2016

The patients of liver cirrhosis associated with portal vein thrombosis (PVT) can be effectively treated by transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic stent shunt (TIPS). Although the corresponding TIPS procedures have already performed on the patients to different types of PVT, the procedures are not specific and the relationship between different types of PVT and technical success rate of TIPS is unclear. What’s more, we aimed to explore the relationship between survival and vascular patency immediately after TIPS. 191 subjects underwent retrospective assessment. Appropriate TIPS procedures were performed based on our more specific classification. The overall success rate of TIPS was 95.8% (183/191). Success rate was significantly different between Grade II and Grade IV thrombosis (χ2 = 5.294, P = 0.021). The 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-and 5-year survival rates were 95.6%, 89.1%, 83.1%, 76.5% and 67.8%, respectively. The overall survival time of completely patent PV and incomplete patent PV immediately after TIPS was 57.05 ± 0.75 vs. 39.12 ± 2.64 months, respectively (P < 0.0001). We conclude that appropriate TIPS procedures and lower grade of PVT are essential for better technical success rate of TIPS. The patency of target vessels is important for survival.
Conformational Ensemble of hIAPP Dimer: Insight into the Molecular Mechanism by which a Green Tea Extract inhibits hIAPP Aggregation
Authors: Mo Yuxiang , Lei Jiangtao , Sun Yunxiang , Zhang Qingwen , Wei Guanghong
Published: September 2016

Small oligomers formed early along human islet amyloid polypeptide (hIAPP) aggregation is responsible for the cell death in Type II diabetes. The epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a green tea extract, was found to inhibit hIAPP fibrillation. However, the inhibition mechanism and the conformational distribution of the smallest hIAPP oligomer – dimer are mostly unknown. Herein, we performed extensive replica exchange molecular dynamic simulations on hIAPP dimer with and without EGCG molecules. Extended hIAPP dimer conformations, with a collision cross section value similar to that observed by ion mobility-mass spectrometry, were observed in our simulations. Notably, these dimers adopt a three-stranded antiparallel β-sheet and contain the previously reported β-hairpin amyloidogenic precursor. We find that EGCG binding strongly blocks both the inter-peptide hydrophobic and aromatic-stacking interactions responsible for inter-peptide β-sheet formation and intra-peptide interaction crucial for β-hairpin formation, thus abolishes the three-stranded β-sheet structures and leads to the formation of coil-rich conformations. Hydrophobic, aromatic-stacking, cation-π and hydrogen-bonding interactions jointly contribute to the EGCG-induced conformational shift. This study provides, on atomic level, the conformational ensemble of hIAPP dimer and the molecular mechanism by which EGCG inhibits hIAPP aggregation.
Influence of curvature strain and Van der Waals force on the inter-layer vibration mode of WS2 nanotubes: A confocal micro-Raman spectroscopic study
Authors: Wang Xiao Hu , Zheng Chang Cheng , Ning Ji Qiang
Published: September 2016

Transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) nanostructures including nanotubes and monolayers have attracted great interests in materials science, chemistry to condensed matter physics. We present an interesting study of the vibration modes in multi-walled tungsten sulfide (WS2) nanotubes prepared via sulfurizing tungsten oxide (WO3) nanowires which are investigated by confocal micro-Raman spectroscopy. The inter-layer vibration mode of WS2 nanotubes, A1g, is found to be sensitive to the diameter and curvature strain, while the in-plane vibration mode, E12g, is not. A1g mode frequency shows a redshift by 2.5 cm−1 for the multi-layered nanotubes with small outer-diameters, which is an outcome of the competition between the Van der Waals force stiffening and the curvature strain softening. We also show that the Raman peak intensity ratio is significantly different between the 1–2 wall layered nanotubes and monolayer flat sheets.
Utility of the dual-specificity protein kinase TTK as a therapeutic target for intrahepatic spread of liver cancer
Authors: Miao Ruoyu , Wu Yan , Zhang Haohai , Zhou Huandi , Sun Xiaofeng , Csizmadia Eva , He Lian , Zhao Yi , Jiang Chengyu , Miksad Rebecca A. , Ghaziani Tahereh , Robson Simon C. , Zhao Haitao
Published: September 2016

Therapies for primary liver cancer, the third leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, remain limited. Following multi-omics analysis (including whole genome and transcriptome sequencing), we were able to identify the dual-specific protein kinase TTK as a putative new prognostic biomarker for liver cancer. Herein, we show that levels of TTK protein are significantly elevated in neoplastic tissues from a cohort of liver cancer patients, when compared with adjacent hepatic tissues. We also tested the utility of TTK targeted inhibition and have demonstrated therapeutic potential in an experimental model of liver cancer in vivo. Following lentiviral shRNA knockdown in several human liver cancer cell lines, we demonstrated that TTK boosts cell growth and promotes cell spreading; as well as protects against senescence and decreases autophagy. In an experimental animal model, we show that in vitro knockdown of TTK effectively blocks intrahepatic growth of human HCC xenografts. Furthermore, we note that, in vivo silencing of TTK, by systemically delivering TTK siRNAs to already tumor-bearing liver, limits intrahepatic spread of liver cancer cells. This intervention is associated with decreased tumor aggressiveness, as well as increased senescence and autophagy. Taken together, our data suggest that targeted TTK inhibition might have clinical utility as an adjunct therapy in management of liver cancer.
Emission wavelength tuning of fluorescence by fine structural control of optical metamaterials with Fano resonance
Authors: Moritake Y. , Kanamori Y. , Hane K.
Published: September 2016

We demonstrated fine emission wavelength tuning of quantum dot (QD) fluorescence by fine structural control of optical metamaterials with Fano resonance. An asymmetric-double-bar (ADB), which was composed of only two bars with slightly different bar lengths, was used to obtain Fano resonance in the optical region. By changing the short bar length of ADB structures with high dimensional accuracy in the order of 10 nm, resonant wavelengths of Fano resonance were controlled from 1296 to 1416 nm. Fluorescence of QDs embedded in a polymer layer on ADB metamaterials were modified due to coupling to Fano resonance and fine tuning from 1350 to 1376 nm was observed. Wavelength tuning of modified fluorescence was reproduced by analysis using absorption peaks of Fano resonance. Tuning range of modified fluorescence became narrow, which was interpreted by a simple Gaussian model and resulted from comparable FWHM in QD fluorescence and Fano resonant peaks. The results will help the design and fabrication of metamaterial devices with fluorophores such as light sources and biomarkers.
The analysis of heterotaxy patients reveals new loss-of-function variants of GRK5
Authors: Lessel Davor , Muhammad Tariq , Casar Tena Teresa , Moepps Barbara , Burkhalter Martin D. , Hitz Marc-Phillip , Toka Okan , Rentzsch Axel , Schubert Stephan , Schalinski Adelheid , Bauer Ulrike M. M. , Kubisch Christian , Ware Stephanie M. , Philipp Melanie
Published: September 2016

G protein-coupled receptor kinase 5 (GRK5) is a regulator of cardiac performance and a potential therapeutic target in heart failure in the adult. Additionally, we have previously classified GRK5 as a determinant of left-right asymmetry and proper heart development using zebrafish. We thus aimed to identify GRK5 variants of functional significance by analysing 187 individuals with laterality defects (heterotaxy) that were associated with a congenital heart defect (CHD). Using Sanger sequencing we identified two moderately frequent variants in GRK5 with minor allele frequencies <10%, and seven very rare polymorphisms with minor allele frequencies <1%, two of which are novel variants. Given their evolutionarily conserved position in zebrafish, in-depth functional characterisation of four variants (p.Q41L, p.G298S, p.R304C and p.T425M) was performed. We tested the effects of these variants on normal subcellular localisation and the ability to desensitise receptor signalling as well as their ability to correct the left-right asymmetry defect upon Grk5l knockdown in zebrafish. While p.Q41L, p.R304C and p.T425M responded normally in the first two aspects, neither p.Q41L nor p.R304C were capable of rescuing the lateralisation phenotype. The fourth variant, p.G298S was identified as a complete loss-of-function variant in all assays and provides insight into the functions of GRK5.
Magnetic field sensing subject to correlated noise with a ring spin chain
Authors: Guo Li-Sha , Xu Bao-Ming , Zou Jian , Shao Bin
Published: September 2016

In this paper, we focus on the magnetic field sensing subject to a correlated noise. We use a ring spin chain with only the nearest neighbor interactions as our probe to estimate both the intensity B and the direction θ of the magnetic field when the probe reaches its steady state. We numerically calculate the quantum Fisher information (QFI) to characterize the estimation precision. On the one hand, for estimating B, we find that the coupling between spins in the probe plays an important role in the precision, and the largest value of the QFI can be achieved when θ = π/2 together with an optimal coupling. Moreover, for any direction, the precision scaling can be better than the Heisenberg-limit (HL) with a proper coupling. On the other hand, for estimating θ, we find that our probe can perform a high precision detection for θ ~ π/2, with the QFI much larger than that for any other directions, especially when the coupling is tuned to the optimal value. And we find that the precision scaling for θ ~ π/2 can be better than the HL, but for other directions, the precision scaling is only limited to the standard quantum limit (SQL). Due to the computational complexity we restrict the number of spins in the probe to 60.
From Zirconium Nanograins to Zirconia Nanoneedles
Authors: Zalnezhad E. , Hamouda A. M. S. , Jaworski J. , Do Kim Young
Published: September 2016

Combinations of three simple techniques were utilized to gradually form zirconia nanoneedles from zirconium nanograins. First, a physical vapor deposition magnetron sputtering technique was used to deposit pure zirconium nanograins on top of a substrate. Second, an anodic oxidation was applied to fabricate zirconia nanotubular arrays. Finally, heat treatment was used at different annealing temperatures in order to change the structure and morphology from nanotubes to nanowires and subsequently to nanoneedles in the presence of argon gas. The size of the pure zirconium nanograins was estimated to be approximately 200–300 nm. ZrO2 nanotubular arrays with diameters of 70–120 nm were obtained. Both tetragonal and monoclinic ZrO2 were observed after annealing at 450 °C and 650 °C. Only a few tetragonal peaks appeared at 850 °C, while monoclinic ZrO2 was obtained at 900 °C and 950 °C. In assessing the biocompatibility of the ZrO2 surface, the human cell line MDA-MB-231 was found to attach and proliferate well on surfaces annealed at 850 °C and 450 °C; however, the amorphous ZrO2 surface, which was not heat treated, did not permit extensive cell growth, presumably due to remaining fluoride.
Establishing nonlinearity thresholds with ultraintense X-ray pulses
Authors: Szlachetko Jakub , Hoszowska Joanna , Dousse Jean-Claude , Nachtegaal Maarten , Błachucki Wojciech , Kayser Yves , Sà Jacinto , Messerschmidt Marc , Boutet Sebastien , Williams Garth J. , David Christian , Smolentsev Grigory , van Bokhoven Jeroen A. , Patterson Bruce D. , Penfold Thomas J. , Knopp Gregor , Pajek Marek , Abela Rafael , Milne Christopher J.
Published: September 2016

X-ray techniques have evolved over decades to become highly refined tools for a broad range of investigations. Importantly, these approaches rely on X-ray measurements that depend linearly on the number of incident X-ray photons. The advent of X-ray free electron lasers (XFELs) is opening the ability to reach extremely high photon numbers within ultrashort X-ray pulse durations and is leading to a paradigm shift in our ability to explore nonlinear X-ray signals. However, the enormous increase in X-ray peak power is a double-edged sword with new and exciting methods being developed but at the same time well-established techniques proving unreliable. Consequently, accurate knowledge about the threshold for nonlinear X-ray signals is essential. Herein we report an X-ray spectroscopic study that reveals important details on the thresholds for nonlinear X-ray interactions. By varying both the incident X-ray intensity and photon energy, we establish the regimes at which the simplest nonlinear process, two-photon X-ray absorption (TPA), can be observed. From these measurements we can extract the probability of this process as a function of photon energy and confirm both the nature and sub-femtosecond lifetime of the virtual intermediate electronic state.
Model suggests potential for Porites coral population recovery after removal of anthropogenic disturbance (Luhuitou, Hainan, South China Sea)
Authors: Zhao Meixia , Riegl Bernhard , Yu Kefu , Shi Qi , Zhang Qiaomin , Liu Guohui , Yang Hongqiang , Yan Hongqiang
Published: September 2016

Population models are important for resource management and can inform about potential trajectories useful for planning purposes, even with incomplete monitoring data. From size frequency data on Luhuitou fringing reef, Hainan, South China Sea, a matrix population model of massive corals (Porites lutea) was developed and trajectories over 100 years under no disturbance and random disturbances were projected. The model reflects a largely open population ofPorites lutea, with low local recruitment and preponderance of imported recruitment. Under no further disturbance, the population ofPorites luteawill grow and its size structure will change from predominance of small size classes to large size classes. Therewith, totalPoritescover will increase. Even under random disturbances every 10 to 20 years, thePoritespopulation could remain viable, albeit at lower space cover. The models suggest recovery at Luhuitou following the removal of chronic anthropogenic disturbance. Extending the area of coral reef reserves to protect the open coral community and the path of connectivity is advisable and imperative for the conservation of Hainan’s coral reefs.
The antidepressant roles of Wnt2 and Wnt3 in stress-induced depression-like behaviors
Authors: Zhou W-J , Xu N , Kong L , Sun S-C , Xu X-F , Jia M-Z , Wang Y , Chen Z-Y
Published: September 2016

Wnts-related signaling pathways have been reported to play roles in the pathogenesis of stress-induced depression-like behaviors. However, there is relatively few direct evidence to indicate the effect of Wnt ligands on this process. Here, we investigated the role of Wnts in mediating chronic restraint stress (CRS)-induced depression-like behaviors. We found that CRS induced a significant decrease in the expression of Wnt2 and Wnt3 in the ventral hippocampus (VH) but not in the dorsal hippocampus. Knocking down Wnt2 or Wnt3 in the VH led to impaired Wnt/β-catenin signaling, neurogenesis deficits and depression-like behaviors. In contrast, overexpression of Wnt2 or Wnt3 reversed CRS-induced depression-like behaviors. Moreover, Wnt2 and Wnt3 activated cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) and there was CREB-dependent positive feedback between Wnt2 and Wnt3. Finally, fluoxetine treatment increased Wnt2 and Wnt3 levels in the VH and knocking down Wnt2 or Wnt3 abolished the antidepressant effect of fluoxetine. Taken together, our study indicates essential roles for Wnt2 and Wnt3 in CRS-induced depression-like behaviors and antidepressant.
The syntheses, structures and azo–hydrazone tautomeric studies of three triazole/tetrazole azo dyes
Authors: Cai Jiawei , Li Zhixin , Qiu Yanxuan , OuYang Zhijian , Lin Wenning , Yang Liu , Feng Weijin , Yu Xinwei , Dong Wen
Published: September 2016

The azo–hydrazone tautomerism for three triazole/tetrazole azo dyes can be elucidated by 1H, 13C NMR and UV-vis spectra.
Chloromethyl-triazole: a new motif for site-selective pseudo-acylation of proteins
Authors: Brewster Richard C. , Gavins Georgina C. , Günthardt Barbara , Farr Sarah , Webb Kimberly M. , Voigt Philipp , Hulme Alison N.
Published: September 2016

Chloromethyl triazoles are shown to be cysteine selective alkylation reagents for ‘near-native’ post-translational modification of protein and peptide substrates.
Strategic improvement of the long-term stability of perovskite materials and perovskite solar cells
Authors: Xu Tingting , Chen Lixin , Guo Zhanhu , Ma Tingli
Published: September 2016

This review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent strategies aimed at enhancing the long-term stability of perovskite materials and perovskite solar cells (PSCs). It also extensively discusses the stability problem of perovskite materials and PSCs from perspectives of experimental tests and theoretical calculations.
Poly(n-alkylsilsesquioxane) liquids prepared by cosolvent-free hydrolytic polycondensation of n-alkyltrialkoxysilanes: effects of liquid–liquid phase separation during aging and alkyl chain length on structure and viscosity
Authors: Fukuda Yuko , Kajihara Koichi , Kakinoki Shiori , Jang Junhyeok , Yoshida Hirohisa , Kanamura Kiyoshi
Published: September 2016

Trimetoxy- and triethoxysilanes with the same n-alkyl groups yield polysilsesquioxane liquids of similar properties by cosolvent-free hydrolytic polycondensation via aging.
A mechanistic study of manganese(iii) acetate-mediated phosphonyl group additions to [60]- and [70]-fullerenes: the oxidative-ion-transfer mechanism vs. free radical addition
Authors: Tumanskii Boris L. , Sabirov Denis S. , Lyakhovetsky Yury I.
Published: September 2016

The phosphonylation of fullerenes with HP(O)(OAlk)2 and Mn(OAc)3·2H2O occurs via the oxidative-ion-transfer mechanism involving the intermediate Mn(OAc)2P(O)(OAlk)2 rather than by the free radical process.
A series of dinuclear lanthanide complexes with slow magnetic relaxation for Dy2 and Ho2
Authors: Zhang Jin , Zhang Haifeng , Chen Yanmei , Zhang Xiangfei , Li Yahong , Liu Wei , Dong Yaping
Published: September 2016

Seven dinuclear complexes [Ln2L2(C2H5OH)2(NO3)2]·0.5py were prepared and characterized; complex 4 exhibits SMM behavior with a Ueff value of 66.7 K.
In vitro bioaccessibility and functional properties of polyphenols from pomegranate peels and pomegranate peels-enriched cookies
Authors: Colantuono Antonio , Ferracane Rosalia , Vitaglione Paola
Published: September 2016

Pomegranate peels (PPe) were proposed as a functional ingredient with a high potential to reduce oxidative processes along the gastro-intestinal tract and to modulate carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.
Syntheses and catalytic activities of new metallodendritic catalysts
Authors: Vieira Eduardo Guimarães , Silva Rafael Oliveira , Dal-Bó Alexandre Gonçalves , Frizon Tiago Elias Allievi , Filho Newton Luiz Dias
Published: September 2016

Metallodendritic catalysts showed high selectivity in the epoxidation of olefins even after being used for at least five cycles.
Synthesis of diverse acyclic precursors to pyrroles for studies of prebiotic routes to tetrapyrrole macrocycles
Authors: Chandrashaker Vanampally , Ptaszek Marcin , Taniguchi Masahiko , Lindsey Jonathan S.
Published: September 2016

Some 50 ketones, β-diketones, β-ketoesters and α-aminoketones have been prepared for studies of the formation of trisubstituted pyrroles equipped for self-condensation leading to tetrapyrrole macrocycles.
A general approach to iridoids by applying a new Julia olefination and a tandem anion-radical-carbocation crossover reaction
Authors: Řehová Lucie , Dračínský Martin , Jahn Ullrich
Published: September 2016

An efficient asymmetric approach to dihydronepetalactone and dolicholactone is presented featuring a Julia olefination and an anion–radical–cation crossover reaction.
Pickering emulsion gels based on insoluble chitosan/gelatin electrostatic complexes
Authors: Wang Xiao-Yan , Heuzey Marie-Claude
Published: September 2016

Food-grade colloidal particles or complexes made from natural polymers via noncovalent interactions can be good candidates for applications in food and non-food industries.
Mono- and multifold C–C coupling reactions catalyzed by a palladium complex encapsulated in MIL-Cr as a three dimensional nano reactor
Authors: Rezaei Saghar , Landarani-Isfahani Amir , Moghadam Majid , Tangestaninejad Shahram , Mirkhani Valiollah , Mohammadpoor-Baltork Iraj
Published: September 2016

A 3-D nanoreactor was prepared by encapsulation of a palladium complex into MIL-Cr and used for mono- and multi C–C coupling reactions.
Modelling fluorescence lifetimes with TD-DFT: a case study with syn-bimanes
Authors: Wong Z. C. , Fan W. Y. , Chwee T. S. , Sullivan M. B.
Published: September 2016

Syn-bimanes are a class of fluorophores that are widely used for labelling thiol containing biological systems. We used TD-DFT to study their absorption, emission, solvatochromism, and fluorescence lifetimes.
Adhesion-based simple capture and recovery of circulating tumor cells using a blood-compatible and thermo-responsive polymer-coated substrate
Authors: Hoshiba Takashi , Orui Toshihiko , Endo Chiho , Sato Kazuhiro , Yoshihiro Ayano , Minagawa Yasuhisa , Tanaka Masaru
Published: September 2016

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) have been a focus of study for metastatic cancer diagnostics, in in vitro anti-cancer drug screening to decide the chemotherapeutic course, and cancer biology research.
Nitrogen-doped graphene/tungsten oxide microspheres as an electro-catalyst support for formic acid electro-oxidation
Authors: Zhou Yang , Li Chen , Fu Junxiang , Yu Changlin , Hu Xian-Chao
Published: September 2016

Tungsten trioxide (WO3) spheres decorated with nitrogen-doped graphene (NRGO–WO3) were synthesized by applying the spray-drying procedure and characterized for their ability to serve as an electro-catalyst support for formic acid electro-oxidation.
Triphenylbismuth carbonate-mediated oxidation of hydroxylamines to nitrones and in situ 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition
Authors: Nguyen Dinh-Vu , Prakash Praveen , Gravel Edmond , Doris Eric
Published: September 2016

Triphenylbismuth carbonate was shown to act as a mild, selective and efficient reagent for the oxidation of hydroxylamines.
Simultaneous and combined detection of multiple tumor markers for cancer screening in human serum by an upgraded photonic crystal-encoded suspension array
Authors: Zheng Shiya , Yang Zixue , Chen Yanping , Wu Dan , Zhou Shoubing , Li Lulu , Jin Xiaoxiao , Zhang Xiu , Liu Zhen , Wang Cailian
Published: September 2016

The silica–agarose photonic beads array brings a novel approach to the combined detection of tumor markers in early cancer screening because it has high accuracy, detection reproducibility, and acceptable agreement with a common clinical method.
Synthesis of single-crystalline, porous TaON microspheres toward visible-light photocatalytic conversion of CO2 into liquid hydrocarbon fuels
Authors: Han Qiutong , Zhou Yong , Tang Lanqin , Li Ping , Tu Wenguang , Li Liang , Li Haijin , Zou Zhigang
Published: September 2016

The porous spherical architecture of TaON plays a significant role in photoreduction of CO2, including the more reaction sites, easier trapping of photon, and shorter charge transfer distance from interior to surface to expedite charge separation.
Hydrophobic ice-binding sites confer hyperactivity of an antifreeze protein from a snow mold fungus
Authors: Cheng Jing , Hanada Yuichi , Miura Ai , Tsuda Sakae , Kondo Hidemasa
Published: September 2016

Snow mold fungus, Typhula ishikariensis, secretes seven antifreeze protein isoforms (denoted TisAFPs) that assist in the survival of the mold under snow cover. Here, the X-ray crystal structure of a hyperactive isoform, TisAFP8, at 1.0 Å resolution is presented. TisAFP8 folds into a right-handed β-helix accompanied with a long α-helix insertion. TisAFP8 exhibited significantly high antifreeze activity that is comparable with other hyperactive AFPs, despite its close structural and sequence similarity with the moderately active isoform TisAFP6. A series of mutations introduced into the putative ice-binding sites (IBSs) in the β-sheet and adjacent loop region reduced antifreeze activity. A double-mutant A20T/A212S, which comprises a hydrophobic patch between the β-sheet and loop region, caused the greatest depression of antifreeze activity of 75%, when compared with that of the wild-type protein. This shows that the loop region is involved in ice binding and hydrophobic residues play crucial functional roles. Additionally, bound waters around the β-sheet and loop region IBSs were organized into an ice-like network and can be divided into two groups that appear to mediate separately TisAFP and ice. The docking model of TisAFP8 with the basal plane via its loop region IBS reveals a better shape complementarity than that of TisAFP6. In conclusion, we present new insights into the ice-binding mechanism of TisAFP8 by showing that a higher hydrophobicity and better shape complementarity of its IBSs, especially the loop region, may render TisAFP8 hyperactive to ice binding.
Design of low‐profile broadband capacitive circuit absorber
Authors: Hakla N. , Ghosh S. , Srivastava K.V.
Published: September 2016

A low‐profile broadband capacitive circuit absorber has been demonstrated both numerically and experimentally. The design consists of square loop resonators and lumped resistors periodically arranged on the top of grounded dielectric substrate. The novelty of the design lies in its capacitive reactance due to square loop geometry, which reduces the electrical thickness of the structure compared with the earlier broadband absorbers. The simulated results show that the structure exhibits reflectance below −10 dB from 1.91 to 5.75 GHz with the thickness of only 0.07λl at the lowest operating frequency. Furthermore, the proposed structure is polarisation insensitive as well as angularly stable. The structure has also been fabricated, whose measured result is in good agreement with the simulated response.
High‐isolation multi‐port millimetre‐wave CMOS dual‐band T/R switch with integrated band‐pass filtering function
Authors: Um Youngman , Nguyen Cam
Published: September 2016

Fully integrated 0.18‐µm CMOS dual‐band band‐pass filtering transmit/receive (T/R) switch operating in two frequency bands of 35.5–43.7 and 56.5–63 GHz is reported. The developed T/R switch consists of three single‐pole double‐throw switches, each designed based on a band‐pass filter with shunt nMOS transistors performing the switching function. The measured insertion losses of the switch are 8.9/12.5 and 10/12.7 dB for receiving and transmitting operations at 40/60 GHz, respectively. The measured stop‐band rejection ratio between 40 and 51 GHz is over 30/22 dB for two operations, respectively. The measured isolation is 56/51 and 57/51 dB for two operations at 40/60 GHz, respectively. The measured input 1‐dB compression points of the switch are 23, 16.5 for single‐tone 40‐, 60‐GHz input signal and 18/14 dBm at 40/60 GHz for concurrent dual‐tone 40/60‐GHz input signals for transmitting operation, respectively. The total chip size is 1840 µm × 860 µm excluding all the testing pads.