bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MiR‐182 inhibits the epithelial to mesenchymal transition and metastasis of lung cancer cells by targeting the Met gene
Authors: Li Yongwen , Zhang Hongbing , Li Ying , Zhao Chenlong , Fan Yaguang , Liu Jinghao , Li Xin , Liu Hongyu , Chen Jun
Published: September 2017

The microRNA miR‐182, belonging to the miR‐183 family, is one of the most frequently studied cancer‐related oncogenic miRNAs that is dysregulated in various cancer tissues, and it plays a crucial role in tumorigenesis and tumor progression. Studies revealed that miR‐182 might function as an oncogenic or tumor suppressor miRNA in different tissues. However, the role of miR‐182 in the development of lung cancer remains largely unknown. miR‐182 expression in tumor samples from 58 patients, normal lung tissue samples, and lung cancer cell lines were evaluated by qRT‐PCR. Survival curves were analyzed using the Kaplan‐Meier method and compared with a log‐rank test. Our study demonstrated that miR‐182 is frequently downregulated in metastatic NSCLC cells compared with primary tumor tissues. Over‐expression of miR‐182 significantly inhibited the migration and invasion of lung cancer cells and promoted the expression of the epithelial marker (E‐cadherin) in addition to reducing the levels of Snail in lung cancer cells. Further studies demonstrated that miR‐182 negatively regulated Met via direct binding to the Met 3′‐untranslated region (3′‐UTR). Furthermore, we found that miR‐182 suppressed the phosphorylation of AKT and the nuclear accumulation of Snail, a transcription factor that promotes the epidermal to mesenchymal transition (EMT). Moreover, miR‐182 could repress cell migration, invasion, and EMT of lung cancer cells induced by hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). miR‐182 might suppress the EMT and metastasis via inactivation of Met/AKT/Snail in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells, which implicates miR‐182 may be useful as a new therapeutic target in NSCLC.
Polynomial stability for system of 3 wave equations with infinite memories
Authors: Braik Abdelkader , Beniani Abderrahmane , Zennir Khaled
Published: September 2017

Here, a system of 3 wave equations in
with infinite memories acting in the first 2 equations is considered. Using weighted spaces, we prove the polynomial stability of the system under some conditions on μ1,μ2, and ϕ as
.
Consumption of Two Healthy Dietary Patterns Restored Microbiota Dysbiosis in Obese Patients with Metabolic Dysfunction
Authors: Haro Carmen , García‐Carpintero Sonia , Rangel‐Zúñiga Oriol A. , Alcalá‐Díaz Juan F. , Landa Blanca B. , Clemente José C. , Pérez‐Martínez Pablo , López‐Miranda José , Pérez‐Jiménez Francisco , Camargo Antonio
Published: September 2017

Scope

The consumption of two healthy diets (Mediterranean (MED) and low‐fat (LF) diets) may restore the gut microbiome dysbiosis in obese patients depending on the degree of metabolic dysfunction.

Methods and results

The differences in bacterial community at baseline and after 2 years of dietary intervention of 106 subjects from the CORDIOPREV study were analyzed, 33 of whom were obese patients with severe metabolic disease (5 criteria for metabolic syndrome) (MetS‐OB), 32 obese patients without metabolic dysfunction (2 or less criteria for metabolic syndrome) (NonMetS‐OB) and 41 non‐obese subjects (NonMetS‐NonOB). Our study showed a marked dysbiosis in people with severe metabolic disease (Met‐OB), compared with obese people without MetS (NonMetS‐OB) and non‐obese people (NonMetS‐NonOB). This disbiotic pattern was reversed by consumption of both MED (35% of calories as fat (22% MUFA fat, 6% PUFA fat and <10% saturated fat) or LF (<30% total fat (<10% saturated fat, 12%–14% MUFA fat and 6–8% PUFA fat) diets, whereas no significant microbiota changes were observed in NonMetS‐NonOB and NonMetS‐OB groups.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the chronic intake of two healthy dietary patterns partially restores the gut microbiome dysbiosis in obese patients with coronary heart disease, depending on the degree of metabolic dysfunction.
The Hunter‐Saxton Equation: A Numerical Approach Using Collocation Method
Authors: Karaagac Berat , Esen Alaattin
Published: September 2017

In this study, we are going to present an overview on the Hunter‐Saxton equation which is a famous equation modelling waves in a massive director field of a nematic liquid crystal. The collocation finite element method is based on quintic B‐spline basis for obtaining numerical solutions of the equation. Using this method, after discretization, solution of the equation expressed as linear combination of shape functions and B‐spline basis. So, Hunter‐Saxton equation converted to nonlinear ordinary differential equation system. With the aid of the error norms and , some comparisons are presented between numeric and exact solutions for different step sizes. As a result, the authors observed that the method is a powerful, suitable and reliable numerical method for solving various kind of partial differential equations.
Using 21st century video prompting technology to facilitate the independence of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Authors: Cullen Jennifer M. , Simmons‐Reed Evette A. , Weaver Lindy
Published: September 2017

Barriers in acquiring, maintaining, and generalizing daily living skills are factors that contribute to discrepancies in independent living outcomes among transition age youth and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Acquisition and generalization of daily living skills empowers transition age youth and young adults with disabilities to meet their own needs with minimal reliance on others. Infusing the use of technology as a self‐prompting device facilitates the acquisition of tasks that may not be otherwise attainable. In this study, self‐directed video prompting on an iPad with the My Pictures Talk application was used to help young adults with IDD in a postsecondary program acquire daily living skills in a single subject, multiple probe across subjects design. The effects of the intervention on generalization to tasks that were one, two, and three components different were also assessed. Results demonstrated a functional relationship between the introduction of the intervention and improvement in skill performance.
Decreased Neuro‐Axonal Proteins in CSF at First Attack of Suspected Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Stoop Marcel P. , Runia Tessel F. , Stingl Christoph , van der Vuurst de Vries Roos M. , Luider Theo M. , Hintzen Rogier Q.
Published: September 2017

The pathology of multiple sclerosis is located in the central nervous system, therefore cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is an attractive biofluid for biomarker research for proteins related to the early stages of this disease. In this study, the CSF proteome of patients with a clinically isolated syndrome of demyelination (CIS, a first attack of multiple sclerosis) is compared to the CSF proteome of control patients to identify differentially abundant proteins. CSF samples of 47 CIS patients and 45 control subjects are enzymatically digested and subsequently measured by LC‐MS/MS (LTQ‐Orbitrap). Following mass spectrometry differential abundances of the identified proteins between groups are investigated. A total of 3159 peptides are identified, relating to 485 proteins. One protein is significantly more abundant in CSF of CIS patients than in controls: Ig kappa chain C region. In contrast, 35 proteins are significantly lower in CIS patients than controls, most of them with functions in nervous system development and function, such as amyloid‐like protein 1 (validated by ELISA in an independent sample set (p < 0.01)), contactin 1, contactin 2 and neuronal cell adhesion molecule. A remarkably lower abundance of neuro‐axonal proteins is observed in patients with a first demyelinating event compared to controls.
Comparative Analysis of Serum Proteins from Patients with Severe and Mild EV‐A71‐induced HFMD using iTRAQ‐Coupled LC‐MS/MS Screening
Authors: Fan Peihu , Chen Wei , Yu Pin , Bao Linlin , Xu Lili , Qin Chuan
Published: September 2017

Purpose

This study was designed to provide a rationale for monitoring the development of severe hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) and predicting the onset of this disease via global comparative analysis between patients with severe and mild HFMD.

Experimental design

The authors collected serum from five groups: mild (E‐M) and severe (E‐S) EV‐A71‐induced HFMD; mild (NE‐M) and severe (NE‐S) non‐EV‐A71‐induced HFMD; and healthy control subjects (CON). The authors then performed comparative analysis and identified specific differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) of E‐S using isobaric mass tag (isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation, iTRAQ) labeling coupled with multidimensional liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS). Moreover, The authors validated specific DEPs by multiple reaction monitoring (MRM).

Results

The authors identified 10 specific proteins that were significantly altered in E‐S patients. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that most of these DEPs are primarily involved in the acute response to infection, which was common to all groups. More importantly, up‐regulated proteins associated with neural injury were specifically identified in the E‐S group.

Conclusion

These findings conclude that severe HFMD symptoms may be caused by EV‐A71 infection‐mediated injury of the neural system and provide a reference for future research on the course and prognosis of severe HFMD.
Visible Light Controlled Aggregation of a Spiropyran‐HSO4− Complex as a Strategy for Reversible Detection in Water
Authors: Kumar Ajeet , Prakash Kunal , Sahoo Priya Ranjan , Kumar Satish
Published: September 2017

A merocyanine salt form of a substituted spiropyran was synthesized and evaluated for stimuli‐responsive properties. The HSO4− induced H‐aggregation of the merocyanine salt was used as a strategy for detection in pure water. The anion induced aggregation was controlled by light, which converted the open merocyanine form into the closed spiropyran form. The formation of the closed form released the hydrogen sulfate ion. The DLS and TEM analyses were used to investigate the aggregation and disaggregation of the merocyanine salt form of a spiropyran. Therefore, the study establishes the first example of reversible, highly selective and nanomolar level response towards HSO4− ion in water.
Solvent‐Free and Catalyst‐Free Biginelli Reaction to Synthesize 4‐Alkyl‐ 3,4‐dihydropyrimidin‐2‐(1H)‐ones
Authors: Guo Yongbiao , Tang Hui , Gao Zhenhua , Meng Xiangyan , Yu Huilan , Zhong Hui , Huang Guilan , Zou Chuanpin
Published: September 2017

3,4‐dihydropyrimidin‐2‐(1H)‐ones and related compounds have attracted considerable attention because of their important pharmacological and biological properties. And 4‐alkyl‐3,4‐dihydropyrimidin‐ 2‐(1H)‐ones can be used as key intermediates in the total synthesis of the natural products Batzelladine A and crambescin A−C. The Biginelli reaction is one of the most important multicomponent reactions that offer an efficient route to produce these compounds. However, most of the related studies have mainly focused on the synthesis of 4‐aryl‐3,4‐dihydropyrimidin‐ 2‐(1H)‐ones. Herein we report a simple, solvent‐ and catalyst‐free method for efficient synthesis of 4‐alkyl‐3,4‐dihydropyrimidin‐ 2‐(1H)‐ones by the Biginelli reaction of aliphatic aldehyde, urea/thiourea and methyl/ethyl/iso‐propyl/tert‐butyl acetoacetate.
Homoleptic Zr and Hf Complexes of Imino/Bis(imino)phenoxide Scaffolds: Synthesis, Structural Characterization and Their Catalytic Activity in the ROP of Cyclic Esters
Authors: Rajashekhar Bijja , Mandal Mrinmay , Chakraborty Debashis , Ramkumar Venkatachalam
Published: September 2017

A series of homoleptic iminophenoxide and bis(imino)phenoxide supported Zr and Hf complexes 1–10 has been synthesized and characterized by NMR, mass spectrometry and elemental analysis. Structural analysis of the selected complexes by single crystal X‐ray diffraction method revealed that the complexes are monomeric in their solid state with distorted dodecahedral geometries. These complexes are found to be potential single‐site catalysts for ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of lactide (LA) and ϵ‐caprolactone (ϵ‐CL) and afforded controlled molecular weight (Mn) polyesters with narrow molecular weight distributions (MWDs) of 1.12‐1.28. Kinetic studies revealed that the polymerization rate have shown to be first order dependency on lactide. The low molecular weight oligomer analysis imparted that the polymerization proceeds through the coordination‐insertion mechanism.
A Metal‐Free Iodination of Aryl Ethers and Phenols Using I2
Authors: Patil Avinash M. , Kamble Dayanand A. , Lokhande Pradeep D.
Published: September 2017

I2/DMSO mediated method for deprotection and selective iodination of allyl aryl ethers and phenols has been developed. A wide range of allyl aryl ethers and phenols have been efficiently iodinated to the respective iodophenols in one pot.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Cyclopropylamine Vitamin D‐Like CYP24A1 Inhibitors
Authors: Chiellini Grazia , Rapposelli Simona , Nesi Giulia , Sestito Simona , Sabatini Martina , Zhu Jinge , Massarelli Ilaria , Plum Lori A. , Clagett‐Dame Margaret , DeLuca Hector F.
Published: September 2017

CYP24A1 hydroxylase plays a key role in tuning the levels and function of 1,25(OH)2D3, and inhibitors of CYP24 may be used for the treatment of a wide variety of clinical conditions. In the present work we describe the synthesis and biological properties of a small series of novel cyclopropylamine vitamin D‐like CYP24A1 inhibitors, designed as structural analogues of our previously described cyclopropylamine vitamin D‐like highly selective CYP24A1 inhibitor, CPA1. When tested in a cell‐free assay, two of these compounds, namely VN‐23 and SAP‐3, were found to be potent inhibitors of CYP24A1, with compound VN‐23 exhibiting selectivity with respect to CYP27B1 almost comparable to that of the lead compound CPA1. Interestingly, although compound SAP‐3, is only moderately selective with respect to CYP27B1, it is almost as potent as 1,25(OH)2D3 in binding for the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and transcriptional activity, while showing low calcemic activity in vivo.
Intermixing Effect on Electronic Structures of TQ1:PC71BM Bulk Heterojunction in Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Bao Qinye , Liu Xianjie , Braun Slawomir , Li Yanqing , Tang Jianxin , Duan Chungang , Fahlman Mats
Published: September 2017

The interface energetics and intermixing effects of the donor/acceptor bulk heterojunction (BHJ) blends of poly[2,3‐bis‐(3‐octyloxyphenyl) quinoxaline‐5, 8‐dilyl‐alt‐thiophene‐2, 5‐diyl]: [6,6]‐phenyl C71butyric acid methyl ester (TQ1:PC71BM) have been investigated using ultraviolet photoemission spectroscopy (UPS) in combination with the integer charge transfer model. The TQ1:PC71BM represents the useful model system for BHJ organic photovoltaics featuring effective charge generation and transport. It finds out that the positive integer charge state of TQ1 are equal in energy to the negative integer charge state of PC71BM, leading to a negligible potential step at TQ1:PC71BM interface and thus the vacuum level alignment. It is observed that the TQ1 accumulates on the top of TQ1:PC71BM BHJ and UPS spectra as function of various blend ratios suggest that the TQ1 mixes finely with PC71BM with the little work function modification in a wide range. In addition, no significant influence of the long‐range Coulomb interactions or the intermolecular hybridization on the occupied electronic structures is present for the well‐intermixed TQ1:PC71BM BHJs. These findings provide deep insights into the properties of BHJ blends and are beneficial for the performance optimization in organic photovoltaics.
Adverse impacts of fog events during winter on fine particulate matter, CO and VOCs: a case study of a highway near Dhanbad, India
Authors: Gupta Sunil K. , Elumalai Suresh P.
Published: September 2017

Adverse meteorological conditions due to frequent fog events during the winter period are a primary cause of the sharp increase in the number of cities with high levels of air pollution, especially in terms of fine particulate matter. Dense fog events were recorded over Dhanbad, in the eastern part of India, during January 2015. Variations in particulate matter (mass/number) concentrations and gaseous pollutant concentrations (carbon monoxide (CO), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)) during foggy days were studied. Elevated ambient concentrations of air pollutants during foggy days were observed, due to high relative humidity (RH), low temperature (T) and stagnant wind conditions. During fog events, the average mass concentrations of particulate matter smaller than 1μm (PM1), 2.5μm (PM2.5), and 10μm (PM10) were observed to be 352, 394 and 497μgm−3, respectively. During fog events, high mass fractions of PM1 (72%) and PM2.5 (82%) in PM10 were observed. However, during normal winter days in January 2015 smaller fractions of PM1 (43%) and PM2.5 (57%) in PM10 were observed. This clearly indicates that fog events were responsible for the creation of additional fine particles (PM1–2.5) in the atmosphere due to adverse meteorological conditions. During fog events the levels of CO and VOCs were found to rise by 88 and 81%, respectively, relative to a normal winter day in January 2015. Similarly, particle number concentrations in the accumulation mode (265–900nm) were observed to be higher on foggy days compared to normal winter days in January 2015. Overall, this study finds that foggy conditions affected PM1–2.5 fractions considerably, and moderately affected levels of CO and VOCs.
A Comparative Study of Generic Visual Components of Two‐Dimensional Versus Three‐Dimensional Laparoscopic Images
Authors: El Boghdady Michael , Ramakrishnan Gobinath , Tang Benjie , Alijani Afshin
Published: September 2017

Aims

There is a strong evidence to suggest that 3D imaging improves the laparoscopic task performance when compared against 2D. However, to date, no study has explained why that might be. We identified six generic visual components during laparoscopic imaging and aimed to study each component in both 2D and 3D environments for comparison.

Methods

Twenty‐four consented laparoscopic novices performed specific isolated tasks in a laparoscopic Endo Trainer in 2D and 3D separately. The six endpoints were the accuracy in detecting changes in the laparoscopic images in the following components: distance, area, angle, curvature, volume and spatial coordinates. All the components except the spatial coordinates were assessed by creation, measurement and comparison. Each component was analysed between 2D and 3D groups and within each group at different values. Tests of spatial coordinates were video‐recorded and analysed for error number and error types by human reliability analysis technique. Errors types included past‐pointing, not reaching the object and touching the wrong object. The results were statistically analysed with independent T test.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference between 2D and 3D accuracy in the angle, area, distance and curvature. 3D performed more accurately in comparing volumes (p = 0.05). In spatial coordinates, there were a statistically significant higher number of errors in 2D as compared to 3D (p < 0.001). Past‐pointing and touching the wrong objects were significantly higher in 2D (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Between all the visual components, detecting change in volume and the spatial coordinates showed significant improvement in 3D environment when compared to 2D.
Vocational and academic approaches to maritime education and training (MET): Trends, challenges and opportunities
Authors: Manuel Michael Ekow
Published: September 2017

Traditional seafarer training has always focused on the acquisition and use of practical skills. The prevailing view is that, while this approach addresses a degree of cognitive skills, it focuses on and gives much more emphasis to the acquisition of hands-on practical skills for the performance of specific tasks. On the other hand, academic education has been seen to be much more focused on the development of in-depth analytical and critical thinking skills; cognitive skills that are less reliant on hands-on task-oriented training, but stress critical reading and discussion. The global trend in maritime education and training is increasingly to link an essentially vocational education that provides specific and restricted competence outcomes with more general or deeper academic components leading to an academic qualification. This trend has led to some dilemmas for curriculum development, for training legislation in a global industry, and for achieving desired learning outcomes in a professional setting (in the shipping industry). This paper discusses some of the challenges arising from this trend and the opportunities the trend offers.
Autopartes del Caribe. Negociando estratégicamente
Authors: Manfredi Luciana C. , González Aragón Édgar Alberto
Published: September 2017

El presente caso de estudio ilustra una situación de negociación entre una empresa manufacturera y su proveedor de maquinaria, originada en la imposibilidad de lograr el óptimo desempeño de una máquina indispensable para atender el incremento en la demanda ocasionado por la apertura de un nuevo mercado, lo cual genera altos sobrecostos para la empresa que se espera sean asumidos por el proveedor. Se detalla cómo se manejó esta negociación, la preparación previa que se llevó a cabo antes de que las partes se reunieran a negociar, el desarrollo de la negociación y el resultado final obtenido. Se incluye un evento posterior a la negociación, que amenaza con reabrir la discusión sobre puntos ya acordados y que pretende llevar al lector a cuestionar si se procedió bien en el manejo de dicha situación, abriendo la discusión tanto sobre la preparación previa como sobre el manejo de eventos posteriores que lleven a una nueva negociación después del cierre de la negociación inicial.
Experimental investigation of flow-induced vibration of a rotating circular cylinder
Authors: Wong K. W. L. , Zhao J. , Lo Jacono D. , Thompson M. C. , Sheridan J.
Published: September 2017

While flow-induced vibration of bluff bodies has been extensively studied over the last half-century, only limited attention has been given to flow-induced vibration of elastically mounted rotating cylinders. Since recent low-Reynolds-number numerical work suggests that rotation can enhance or suppress the natural oscillatory response, the former could find applications in energy harvesting and the latter in vibration control. The present experimental investigation characterises the dynamic response and wake structure of a rotating circular cylinder undergoing vortex-induced vibration at a low mass ratio ($m^{\ast }=5.78$) over the reduced velocity range leading to strong oscillations. The experiments were conducted in a free-surface water channel with the cylinder vertically mounted and attached to a motor that provided constant rotation. Springs and an air-bearing system allow the cylinder to undertake low-damped transverse oscillations. Under cylinder rotation, the normalised frequency response was found to be comparable to that of a freely vibrating non-rotating cylinder. At reduced velocities consistent with the upper branch of a non-rotating transversely oscillating cylinder, the maximum oscillation amplitude increased with non-dimensional rotation rate up to $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}\approx 2$. Beyond this, there was a sharp decrease in amplitude. Notably, this critical value corresponds approximately to the rotation rate at which vortex shedding ceases for a non-oscillating rotating cylinder. Remarkably, at $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}=2$ there was approximately an 80 % increase in the peak amplitude response compared to that of a non-rotating cylinder. The observed amplitude response measured over the Reynolds-number range of ($1100\lesssim Re\lesssim 6300$) is significantly different from numerical predictions and other experimental results recorded at significantly lower Reynolds numbers.
Climatic and in-cave influences on δ18O and δ13C in a stalagmite from northeastern India through the last deglaciation
Authors: Lechleitner Franziska A. , Breitenbach Sebastian F.M. , Cheng Hai , Plessen Birgit , Rehfeld Kira , Goswami Bedartha , Marwan Norbert , Eroglu Deniz , Adkins Jess , Haug Gerald
Published: September 2017

Northeastern (NE) India experiences extraordinarily pronounced seasonal climate, governed by the Indian summer monsoon (ISM). The vulnerability of this region to floods and droughts calls for detailed and highly resolved paleoclimate reconstructions to assess the recurrence rate and driving factors of ISM changes. We use stable oxygen and carbon isotope ratios (δ18O and δ13C) from stalagmite MAW-6 from Mawmluh Cave to infer climate and environmental conditions in NE India over the last deglaciation (16–6ka). We interpret stalagmite δ18O as reflecting ISM strength, whereas δ13C appears to be driven by local hydroclimate conditions. Pronounced shifts in ISM strength over the deglaciation are apparent from the δ18O record, similarly to other records from monsoonal Asia. The ISM is weaker during the late glacial (LG) period and the Younger Dryas, and stronger during the Bølling-Allerød and Holocene. Local conditions inferred from the δ13C record appear to have changed less substantially over time, possibly related to the masking effect of changing precipitation seasonality. Time series analysis of the δ18O record reveals more chaotic conditions during the late glacial and higher predictability during the Holocene, likely related to the strengthening of the seasonal recurrence of the ISM with the onset of the Holocene.
Effectiveness of a low support, remotely accessible, cognitive remediation training programme for chronic psychosis: cognitive, functional and cortical outcomes from a single blind randomised controlled trial
Authors: Donohoe G. , Dillon R. , Hargreaves A. , Mothersill O. , Castorina M. , Furey E. , Fagan A. J. , Meaney J. F. , Fitzmaurice B. , Hallahan B. , McDonald C. , Wykes T. , Corvin A. , Robertson I. H.
Published: September 2017

Background

Cognitive remediation (CR) training has emerged as a promising approach to improving cognitive deficits in schizophrenia and related psychosis. The limited availability of psychological services for psychosis is a major barrier to accessing this intervention however. This study investigated the effectiveness of a low support, remotely accessible, computerised working memory (WM) training programme in patients with psychosis.

Methods

Ninety patients were enrolled into a single blind randomised controlled trial of CR. Effectiveness of the intervention was assessed in terms of neuropsychological performance, social and occupational function, and functional MRI 2 weeks post-intervention, with neuropsychological and social function again assessed 3–6 months post-treatment.

Results

Patients who completed the intervention showed significant gains in both neuropsychological function (measured using both untrained WM and episodic task performance, and a measure of performance IQ), and social function at both 2-week follow-up and 3–6-month follow-up timepoints. Furthermore, patients who completed MRI scanning showed improved resting state functional connectivity relative to patients in the placebo condition.

Conclusions

CR training has already been shown to improve cognitive and social function in patient with psychosis. This study demonstrates that, at least for some chronic but stable outpatients, a low support treatment was associated with gains that were comparable with those reported for CR delivered entirely on a 1:1 basis. We conclude that CR has potential to be delivered even in services in which psychological supports for patients with psychosis are limited.
Three Theories of the Effects of Language Education Programs: An Empirical Evaluation of Bilingual and English-Only Policies
Authors: MacSwan Jeff , Thompson Marilyn S. , Rolstad Kellie , McAlister Kara , Lobo Gerda
Published: September 2017

We empirically evaluated three theoretical models—the threshold hypothesis, transfer theory, and time-on-task theory—for educating English language learners (ELLs), with a focus on the role of language factors in explaining achievement differences among ELLs. Participants were 196 sixth graders with Spanish language backgrounds who started learning English in kindergarten and then were continuously enrolled in a U.S. school. Structural equation modeling was used to estimate the extent to which Spanish and English language and literacy—skills that are emphasized differentially in competing theories for educating ELLs—predict academic achievement assessed in English. Results indicated that Spanish literacy, over and above English language proficiency, was substantially predictive of academic achievement, consistent with the transfer theory. This model was a more focused version of the threshold hypothesis, in that the weaker predictor of Spanish oral language proficiency was excluded. Time-on task theory was not supported.
Psychopathology of terrorists
Authors: Piccinni Armando , Marazziti Donatella , Veltri Antonello
Published: September 2017

Terrorist behavior represents a subtype of human aggression probably determined by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors, as well as by peculiar environmental influences and group dynamics. As regards terrorists’ psychological characteristics, the available studies (mostly carried out with no sound scientific design) have failed to identify the common or typical pathological personality traits of modern terrorists. The popular opinion that terrorists must be insane or psychopathic is still widespread; however, no evidence exists that terrorist behavior may be caused either by prior or current psychiatric disorders or psychopathy. Not surprisingly, some theories have proposed social factors and non-pathological psychological traits as predisposing elements for terrorist acts, but they generally lack of empirical validation. Moreover, most of these theories do not explain why, even if so many people are exposed to the same social factors or show the same psychological traits, only a tiny minority of them join a terrorist group. Therefore, it is mandatory that systematic and scientific investigations be carried out in order to understand the possible bases for terrorist aggression, including the early detection of possibly associated psychopathology, and to design an appropriate counterterrorism prevention policy.
THE ANCHORING OF INFLATION EXPECTATIONS IN THE SHORT AND IN THE LONG RUN
Authors: Nautz Dieter , Strohsal Till , Netšunajev Aleksei
Published: September 2017

This paper introduces structural VAR analysis as a tool for investigating the anchoring of inflation expectations. We show that US consumers' inflation expectations are anchored in the long run because macro-news shocks are long-run neutral for long-term inflation expectations. The identification of structural shocks helps to explain why inflation expectations deviate from the central bank's target. Our results indicate that the recent decline in long-term inflation expectations does not result from deanchoring macro-news but can be attributed to downward adjustments in consumers' expectations about the central bank's inflation target.
Further stabilization and even decrease in the prevalence rates of overweight and obesity in German children and adolescents from 2005 to 2015: a cross-sectional and trend analysis
Authors: Keß Annette , Spielau Ulrike , Beger Christoph , Gausche Ruth , Vogel Mandy , Lipek Tobias , Körner Antje , Pfäffle Roland , Kiess Wieland
Published: September 2017

Objective

Recently several industrialized countries reported a stabilization or even a decrease in childhood overweight and obesity prevalence rates. In Germany, this trend started in 2004. The present study therefore aimed to evaluate whether this trend has continued or even leads in a clear direction.

Design/Setting/Subjects

BMI (>90th percentile (overweight), >97th percentile (obesity)) from the CrescNet database was analysed in 326 834 children and adolescents according to three age groups (4–7·99, 8–11·99 and 12–16 years), gender and between time points (2005–2015).

Results

Trend analysis from 2005 to 2010 demonstrated that the prevalence of overweight and obesity decreased significantly in boys and girls in the entire group (4–16 years) and in 4–7·99-year-olds. From 2010 to 2015 there was a significant decrease in boys for overweight and obesity in the entire group and for overweight among 8–11·99-year-olds. Within the cross-sectional analysis, prevalence rates for overweight decreased significantly for both genders in the age groups of 4–7·99 and 8–11·99 years (2005 v. 2015). For obesity, prevalence rates showed a significant decrease for boys (2005 v. 2015) and girls (2005 v. 2010) in 4–7·99-year-olds.

Conclusions

We observed a further stabilization of overweight and obesity prevalence rates for all age groups and even a decrease in the rates for the younger ages (4–7·99 years, 8–11·99 years). As other industrialized countries have also reported similar trends, it seems that the epidemic of childhood overweight and obesity is reaching a turning point in the industrial part of the world.
Pluto’s Features Receive First Official Names
Authors: Cartier Kimberly
Published: September 2017

Names of mountains, plains, valleys, and craters honor human and technological pioneers, Pluto scientists, and underworld mythology from around the world.
Ethical Considerations and Treatment Decision Making When Parental Adherence Difficulties Impact Treatment Outcomes: Comment on
Authors: Fehr Karla K.
Published: September 2017

The case study presented in “How the interaction between parent and child can lead to non-adherence: A case study of self-catheterization” exemplifies the complexity of treatment decision making when intervention progress is impacted by difficulties with parental adherence. When parents do not adhere to treatment recommendations, a variety of clinical and ethical factors are important to consider in determining how to proceed. This commentary discusses factors relevant to this treatment decision-making process, including the family’s commitment to treatment, barriers to treatment, and whether termination should be considered.
Coaching to Improve Mealtime Parenting in Treating Pediatric Obesity
Authors: Shinn Marta M. , Timmer Susan G. , Sandoz Tay K.
Published: September 2017

Childhood obesity is a significant public health concern, with about 17% of children in the United States reported as obese ( Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2012a ). Family Mealtime Coaching (FMC) is a live coaching intervention using positive psychology interventions and modeling to improve mealtime parenting, child behavior and weight status, and parent–child communication. The purpose of this study was to examine how parent coaching affects feeding practices and pediatric obesity in 2 to 10 year olds. We used a pre-/postexperimental design comparing treatment assessments of children and their caregivers participating in FMC. Caregivers ( N = 51) consented to participate in the study. Only those participants with at least 2 measurements of height and weight from which BMI could be calculated ( N = 43) were included. The children averaged 6.96 years of age ( SD = 2.7), ranging between 2 and 11 years of age, and 58% were female. The large majority were Latino (84%). Children’s baseline body mass index (BMI) averaged at the 97.3 percentile ( SD = 3.4), and waist circumference averaged 78.02 cm. Results of analyses showed that children entering treatment within the upper limits of BMI percentile (i.e., 97th percentile or higher) were more likely to complete treatment and showed a significant reduction in BMI z score. The intervention also yielded significant increases in family style serving, intuitive eating, and mealtime communication; reduced maladaptive feeding comments among parents; and decreased problematic mealtime behaviors in the children. These findings suggest a promising empirical basis for using coaching to reshape feeding-related parent–child interactions.
ANGPTL4 mediates the protective role of PPARγ activators in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia
Authors: Liu Lei , Zhuang Xu , Jiang Meng , Guan Fei , Fu Qin , Lin Jianhua
Published: September 2017

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) has been shown to be a therapeutic target for preeclampsia (PE). Angiopoietin-like protein 4 (ANGPTL4) is a multifunctional secretory protein involved in regulating lipid metabolism and angiogenesis in various tissues. However, the expression of PPARγ and ANGPTL4 and their interaction in PE remain elusive. Here we showed that PPARγ agonist rosiglitazone upregulated the expression and secretion of ANGPTL4 in a dose-dependent manner in HTR8/SVneo cells, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and placental explants. More importantly, we confirmed that the PPARγ/retinoid X receptor α heterodimer specifically binds to the ANGPTL4 promoter region and enhances its transcriptional activity. In addition, the levels of ANGPTL4 and PPARγ activators in the serum and their expression in placental tissues were significantly reduced in preeclamptic patients compared with normal pregnant subjects. Furthermore, functional studies demonstrated that ANGPTL4 mediates the facilitative effects of the PPARγ agonist on the survival, proliferation, migration and invasion of HTR8/SVneo cells, placental explants outgrowth and angiogenesis in HUVECs. Taken together, our results suggest that ANGPTL4 is a potential target gene for PPARγ and mediates the protective role of PPARγ activators in the pathogenesis of PE.
Inhibition of the deubiquitinase USP5 leads to c-Maf protein degradation and myeloma cell apoptosis
Authors: Wang Siyu , Juan Jiaxiang , Zhang Zubin , Du Yanyun , Xu Yujia , Tong Jiefei , Cao Biyin , Moran Michael F , Zeng Yuanying , Mao Xinliang
Published: September 2017

The deubiquitinase USP5 stabilizes c-Maf, a key transcription factor in multiple myeloma (MM), but the mechanisms and significance are unclear. In the present study, USP5 was found to interact with c-Maf and prevented it from degradation by decreasing its polyubiquitination level. Specifically, the 308th and 347th lysine residues in c-Maf were critical for USP5-mediated deubiquitination and stability. There are five key domains in the USP5 protein and subsequent studies revealed that the cryptic ZnF domain and the C-box domain interacted with c-Maf but the UBA1/UBA2 domain partly increased its stability. Notably, MafA and MafB are also members of the c-Maf family, however, USP5 failed to deubiquitinate MafA, suggesting its substrate specificity. In the functional studies, USP5 was found to promoted the transcriptional activity of c-Maf. Consistent with the high level of c-Maf protein in MM cells, USP5 was also highly expressed. When USP5 was knocked down, c-Maf underwent degradation. Interestingly, USP5 silence led to apoptosis of MM cells expressing c-Maf but not MM cells lacking c-Maf, indicating c-Maf is a key factor in USP5-mediated MM cell proliferation and survival. Consistent with this finding, WP1130, an inhibitor of several Dubs including USP5, suppressed the transcriptional activity of c-Maf and induced MM cell apoptosis. When c-Maf was overexpressed, WP1130-induced MM cell apoptosis was abolished. Taken together, these findings suggest that USP5 regulates c-Maf stability and MM cell survival. Targeting the USP5/c-Maf axis could be a potential strategy for MM treatment.
A threefold rise in widespread extreme rain events over central India
Authors: Roxy M. K. , Ghosh Subimal , Pathak Amey , Athulya R. , Mujumdar Milind , Murtugudde Raghu , Terray Pascal , Rajeevan M.
Published: September 2017

Socioeconomic challenges continue to mount for half a billion residents of central India because of a decline in the total rainfall and a concurrent rise in the magnitude and frequency of extreme rainfall events. Alongside a weakening monsoon circulation, the locally available moisture and the frequency of moisture-laden depressions from the Bay of Bengal have also declined. Here we show that despite these negative trends, there is a threefold increase in widespread extreme rain events over central India during 1950–2015. The rise in these events is due to an increasing variability of the low-level monsoon westerlies over the Arabian Sea, driving surges of moisture supply, leading to extreme rainfall episodes across the entire central subcontinent. The homogeneity of these severe weather events and their association with the ocean temperatures underscores the potential predictability of these events by two-to-three weeks, which offers hope in mitigating their catastrophic impact on life, agriculture and property.
Printing of small molecular medicines from the vapor phase
Authors: Shalev Olga , Raghavan Shreya , Mazzara J. Maxwell , Senabulya Nancy , Sinko Patrick D. , Fleck Elyse , Rockwell Christopher , Simopoulos Nicholas , Jones Christina M. , Schwendeman Anna , Mehta Geeta , Clarke Roy , Amidon Gregory E. , Shtein Max
Published: September 2017

There is growing need to develop efficient methods for early-stage drug discovery, continuous manufacturing of drug delivery vehicles, and ultra-precise dosing of high potency drugs. Here we demonstrate the use of solvent-free organic vapor jet printing to deposit nanostructured films of small molecular pharmaceutical ingredients, including caffeine, paracetamol, ibuprofen, tamoxifen, BAY 11-7082 and fluorescein, with accuracy on the scale of micrograms per square centimeter, onto glass, Tegaderm, Listerine tabs, and stainless steel microneedles. The printed films exhibit similar crystallographic order and chemistry as the original powders; controlled, order-of-magnitude enhancements of dissolution rate are observed relative to powder-form particles. In vitro treatment of breast and ovarian cancer cell cultures in aqueous media by tamoxifen and BAY 11-7082 films shows similar behavior to drugs pre-dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide. The demonstrated precise printing of medicines as films, without the use of solvents, can accelerate drug screening and enable continuous manufacturing, while enhancing dosage accuracy.
A novel pathogenic single nucleotide germline deletion in APC gene in a four generation Chinese family with familial adenomatous polyposis
Authors: Zhang Zhao , Liang Shengyun , Wang Dan , Liang Shengran , Li Yuwei , Wang Bingjie , jiang Tao , Zhao Guoru , Zhang Xipeng , Banerjee Santasree
Published: September 2017

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is an autosomal dominant precancerous condition which is associated with germline mutations of the APC gene. Clinically, FAP is characterized by the development of multiple colorectal adenomas or polyps which finally result in colorectal cancer by the 40 years age of the patient, if no surgical interventions have been undertaken. In this study, we present a clinical molecular study of a four generation Chinese family with FAP. Diagnosis of FAP was made on the basis of clinical manifestations, family history and medical (colonoscopy and histopathology) records. Genetic screening of the proband and all affected family members were performed by targeted next-generation sequencing and confirmatory Sanger sequencing. Targeted next generation sequencing identified a germline novel heterozygous single nucleotide deletion [c.3418delC; p.Pro1140Leufs*25] in exon18 of APC gene, which segregated with the FAP phenotypes in the proband and in all the affected family members whereas absent in unaffected family members as well as in normal healthy controls of same ethnic origin. Our present study expands the mutational spectrum of APC gene and provides evidence to understand the function of APC gene in FAP.
Erratum: Phylogeography of the Tyrrhenian red deer (Cervus elaphus corsicanus) resolved using ancient DNA of radiocarbon-dated subfossils
Authors: Doan K. , Zachos F. E. , Wilkens B. , Vigne J.-D. , Piotrowska N. , Stanković A. , Jędrzejewska B. , Stefaniak K. , Niedziałkowska M.
Published: September 2017

A corarection to this Article has been published and is linked from the HTML version of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
Combinatorial control of gene expression in Aspergillus niger grown on sugar beet pectin
Authors: Kowalczyk Joanna E. , Lubbers Ronnie J. M. , Peng Mao , Battaglia Evy , Visser Jaap , de Vries Ronald P.
Published: September 2017

Aspergillus niger produces an arsenal of extracellular enzymes that allow synergistic degradation of plant biomass found in its environment. Pectin is a heteropolymer abundantly present in the primary cell wall of plants. The complex structure of pectin requires multiple enzymes to act together. Production of pectinolytic enzymes in A. niger is highly regulated, which allows flexible and efficient capture of nutrients. So far, three transcriptional activators have been linked to regulation of pectin degradation in A. niger. The L-rhamnose-responsive regulator RhaR controls the production of enzymes that degrade rhamnogalacturonan-I. The L-arabinose-responsive regulator AraR controls the production of enzymes that decompose the arabinan and arabinogalactan side chains of rhamnogalacturonan-II. The D-galacturonic acid-responsive regulator GaaR controls the production of enzymes that act on the polygalacturonic acid backbone of pectin. This project aims to better understand how RhaR, AraR and GaaR co-regulate pectin degradation. For that reason, we constructed single, double and triple disruptant strains of these regulators and analyzed their growth phenotype and pectinolytic gene expression in A. niger grown on sugar beet pectin.
C1-Ten is a PTPase of nephrin, regulating podocyte hypertrophy through mTORC1 activation
Authors: Lee Jiyoun , Koh Ara , Jeong Heeyoon , Kim Eui , Ha Tae-Sun , Saleem Moin A. , Ryu Sung Ho
Published: September 2017

Hypertrophy is a prominent feature of damaged podocytes in diabetic kidney disease (DKD). mTORC1 hyperactivation leads to podocyte hypertrophy, but the detailed mechanism of how mTORC1 activation occurs under pathological conditions is not completely known. Moreover, reduced nephrin tyrosine phosphorylation has been observed in podocytes under pathological conditions, but the molecular mechanism linking nephrin phosphorylation and pathology is unclear so far. In this study, we observed a significant increase in C1-Ten level in diabetic kidney and in high glucose-induced damaged podocytes. C1-Ten acts as a protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTPase) at the nephrin-PI3K binding site and renders PI3K for IRS-1, thereby activating mTORC1. Furthermore, C1-Ten causes podocyte hypertrophy and proteinuria by increasing mTORC1 activity in vitro and in vivo. These findings demonstrate the relationship between nephrin dephosphorylation and the mTORC1 pathway, mediated by C1-Ten PTPase activity. We suggest that C1-Ten contributes to the pathogenesis of DKD by inducing podocyte hypertrophy under high glucose conditions.
Compositionally Graded Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors
Authors: Song Hyun-Cheol , Zhou Jie E. , Maurya Deepam , Yan Yongke , Wang Yu U. , Priya Shashank
Published: September 2017

Multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCC) are widely used in consumer electronics. Here, we provide a transformative method for achieving high dielectric response and tunability over a wide temperature range through design of compositionally graded multilayer (CGML) architecture. Compositionally graded MLCCs were found to exhibit enhanced dielectric tunability (70%) along with small dielectric losses (<2.5%) over the required temperature ranges specified in the standard industrial classifications. The compositional grading resulted in generation of internal bias field which enhanced the tunability due to increased nonlinearity. The electric field tunability of MLCCs provides an important avenue for design of miniature filters and power converters.