bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanostructured transition metal dichalcogenide electrocatalysts for CO
2
reduction in ionic liquid
Authors: Asadi Mohammad , Kim Kibum , Liu Cong , Addepalli Aditya Venkata , Abbasi Pedram , Yasaei Poya , Phillips Patrick , Behranginia Amirhossein , Cerrato José M. , Haasch Richard , Zapol Peter , Kumar Bijandra , Klie Robert F. , Abiade Jeremiah , Curtiss Larry A. , Salehi-Khojin Amin
Published: July 2016

Small and salty CO
2
reduction scheme

Most artificial photosynthesis approaches focus on making hydrogen. Modifying CO
2
, as plants and microbes do, is more chemically complex. Asadi
et al.
report that fashioning WSe
2
and related electrochemical catalysts into nanometer-scale flakes greatly improves their activity for the reduction of CO
2
to CO. An ionic liquid reaction medium further enhances efficiency. An artificial leaf with WSe
2
reduced CO
2
on one side while a cobalt catalyst oxidized water on the other side.

Science
, this issue p.
467
Arabidopsis
transcriptional repressor VAL1 triggers Polycomb silencing at
FLC
during vernalization
Authors: Qüesta Julia I. , Song Jie , Geraldo Nuno , An Hailong , Dean Caroline
Published: July 2016

The determinants that specify the genomic targets of Polycomb silencing complexes are still unclear. Polycomb silencing of
Arabidopsis
FLOWERING LOCUS C
(
FLC
) accelerates flowering and involves a cold-dependent epigenetic switch. Here we identify a single point mutation at an intragenic nucleation site within
FLC
that prevents this epigenetic switch from taking place. The mutation blocks nucleation of plant homeodomain–Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PHD-PRC2) and indicates a role for the transcriptional repressor VAL1 in the silencing mechanism. VAL1 localizes to the nucleation region in vivo, promoting histone deacetylation and
FLC
transcriptional silencing, and interacts with components of the conserved apoptosis- and splicing-associated protein (ASAP) complex. Sequence-specific targeting of transcriptional repressors thus recruits the machinery for PHD-PRC2 nucleation and epigenetic silencing.
Plant extinctions take time
Authors: Cronk Quentin
Published: July 2016

Many plant species may already be functionally extinct
Existence of Two Distinct Infectious Endogenous Retroviruses in Domestic Cats and Their Different Strategies for Adaptation to Transcriptional Regulation
Authors: Kuse Kyohei , Ito Jumpei , Miyake Ariko , Kawasaki Junna , Watanabe Shinya , Makundi Isaac , Ngo Minh Ha , Otoi Takeshige , Nishigaki Kazuo
Published: July 2016

Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) are the remnants of ancient retroviral infections of germ cells. Previous work identified one of the youngest feline ERV groups, ERV-DC, and reported that two ERV-DC loci, ERV-DC10 and ERV-DC18 (ERV-DC10/DC18), can replicate in cultured cells. Here, we identified another replication-competent provirus, ERV-DC14, on chromosome C1q32. ERV-DC14 differs from ERV-DC10/DC18 in its phylogeny, receptor usage, and, most notably, transcriptional activities; although ERV-DC14 can replicate in cultured cells, it cannot establish a persistent infection owing to its low transcriptional activity. Furthermore, we examined ERV-DC transcription and its regulation in feline tissues. Quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) detected extremely low ERV-DC10 expression levels in feline tissues, and bisulfite sequencing showed that 5′ long terminal repeats (LTRs) of ERV-DC10/DC18 are significantly hypermethylated in feline blood cells. Reporter assays found that the 5′-LTR promoter activities of ERV-DC10/DC18 are high, whereas that of ERV-DC14 is low. This difference in promoter activity is due to a single substitution from A to T in the LTR, and reverse mutation at this nucleotide in ERV-DC14 enhanced its replication and enabled it to persistently infect cultured cells. Therefore, ERV-DC LTRs can be divided into two types based on this nucleotide, the A type or T type, which have strong or attenuated promoter activity, respectively. Notably, ERV-DCs with T-type LTRs, such as ERV-DC14, have expanded in the cat genome significantly more than A-type ERV-DCs, despite their low promoter activities. Our results provide insights into how the host controls potentially infectious ERVs and, conversely, how ERVs adapt to and invade the host genome.

IMPORTANCE
The domestic cat genome contains many endogenous retroviruses, including ERV-DCs. These ERV-DCs have been acquired through germ cell infections with exogenous retroviruses. Some of these ERV-DCs are still capable of producing infectious virions. Hosts must tightly control these ERVs because replication-competent viruses in the genome pose a risk to the host. Here, we investigated how ERV-DCs are adapted by their hosts. Replication-competent viruses with strong promoter activity, such as ERV-DC10 and ERV-DC18, were suppressed by promoter methylation in LTRs. On the other hand, replication-competent viruses with weak promoter activity, such as ERV-DC14, seemed to escape strict control via promoter methylation by the host. Interestingly, ERV-DCs with weak promoter activity, such as ERV-DC14, have expanded in the cat genome significantly more than ERV-DCs with strong promoter activity. Our results improve the understanding of the host-virus conflict and how ERVs adapt in their hosts over time.
Demethylation of the PD-1 Promoter Is Imprinted during the Effector Phase of CD8 T Cell Exhaustion
Authors: Ahn Eunseon , Youngblood Ben , Lee Junghwa , Lee Judong , Sarkar Surojit , Ahmed Rafi
Published: July 2016

PD-1 is an inhibitory receptor that has a major role in T cell dysfunction during chronic infections and cancer. While demethylation of the PD-1 promoter DNA is observed in exhausted T cells isolated from chronically infected individuals, little is known about when this stable demethylation of PD-1 promoter DNA is programmed during the course of a chronic infection. To assess if PD-1 promoter DNA demethylation is impacted by prolonged stimulation during effector phase of chronic infection, we adoptively transferred virus-specific day 8 effector CD8 T cells from mice infected with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) clone 13 into recipient mice that had cleared an acute infection. We observed that LCMV-specific CD8 T cells from chronically infected mice maintained their surface expression of PD-1 even after transfer into acute immune mice until day 45 posttransfer. Interestingly, the PD-1 transcriptional regulatory region continued to remain unmethylated in these donor CD8 T cells generated from a chronic infection. The observed maintenance of PD-1 surface expression and the demethylated PD-1 promoter were not a result of residual antigen in the recipient mice, because similar results were seen when chronic infection-induced effector cells were transferred into mice infected with a variant strain of LCMV (LCMV V35A) bearing a mutation in the cognate major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) epitope that is recognized by the donor CD8 T cells. Importantly, the maintenance of PD-1 promoter demethylation in memory CD8 T cells was coupled with impaired clonal expansion and higher PD-1 re-expression upon secondary challenge. These data show that the imprinting of the epigenetic program of the inhibitory receptor PD-1 occurs during the effector phase of chronic viral infection.

IMPORTANCE
Since PD-1 is a major inhibitory receptor regulating T cell dysfunction during chronic viral infection and cancers, a better understanding of the mechanisms that regulate PD-1 expression is important. In this work, we demonstrate that the PD-1 epigenetic program in antigen-specific CD8 T cells is fixed during the priming phase of chronic infection.
The Ubiquitin Ligase Itch and Ubiquitination Regulate BFRF1-Mediated Nuclear Envelope Modification for Epstein-Barr Virus Maturation
Authors: Lee Chung-Pei , Liu Guan-Ting , Kung Hsiu-Ni , Liu Po-Ting , Liao Yen-Tzu , Chow Lu-Ping , Chang Ling-Shih , Chang Yu-Hsin , Chang Chou-Wei , Shu Wen-Chi , Angers Annie , Farina Antonella , Lin Su-Fang , Tsai Ching-Hwa , Bouamr Fadila , Chen Mei-Ru
Published: July 2016

The cellular endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) was recently found to mediate important morphogenesis processes at the nuclear envelope (NE). We previously showed that the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) BFRF1 protein recruits the ESCRT-associated protein Alix to modulate NE structure and promote EBV nuclear egress. Here, we uncover new cellular factors and mechanisms involved in this process. BFRF1-induced NE vesicles are similar to those observed following EBV reactivation. BFRF1 is ubiquitinated, and elimination of possible ubiquitination by either lysine mutations or fusion of a deubiquitinase hampers NE-derived vesicle formation and virus maturation. While it interacts with multiple Nedd4-like ubiquitin ligases, BFRF1 preferentially binds Itch ligase. We show that Itch associates with Alix and BFRF1 and is required for BFRF1-induced NE vesicle formation. Our data demonstrate that Itch, ubiquitin, and Alix control the BFRF1-mediated modulation of the NE and EBV maturation, uncovering novel regulatory mechanisms of nuclear egress of viral nucleocapsids.

IMPORTANCE
The nuclear envelope (NE) of eukaryotic cells not only serves as a transverse scaffold for cellular processes, but also as a natural barrier for most DNA viruses that assemble their nucleocapsids in the nucleus. Previously, we showed that the cellular endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) machinery is required for the nuclear egress of EBV. Here, we further report the molecular interplay among viral BFRF1, the ESCRT adaptor Alix, and the ubiquitin ligase Itch. We found that BFRF1-induced NE vesicles are similar to those observed following EBV reactivation. The lysine residues and the ubiquitination of BFRF1 regulate the formation of BFRF1-induced NE-derived vesicles and EBV maturation. During the process, a ubiquitin ligase, Itch, preferably associates with BFRF1 and is required for BFRF1-induced NE vesicle formation. Therefore, our data indicate that Itch, ubiquitin, and Alix control the BFRF1-mediated modulation of the NE, suggesting novel regulatory mechanisms for ESCRT-mediated NE modulation.
Kinetics of HIV-1 Latency Reversal Quantified on the Single-Cell Level Using a Novel Flow-Based Technique
Authors: Martrus G. , Niehrs A. , Cornelis R. , Rechtien A. , García-Beltran W. , Lütgehetmann M. , Hoffmann C. , Altfeld M.
Published: July 2016

HIV-1 establishes a pool of latently infected cells early following infection. New therapeutic approaches aiming at diminishing this persisting reservoir by reactivation of latently infected cells are currently being developed and tested. However, the reactivation kinetics of viral mRNA and viral protein production, and their respective consequences for phenotypical changes in infected cells that might enable immune recognition, remain poorly understood. We adapted a novel approach to assess the dynamics of HIV-1 mRNA and protein expression in latently and newly infected cells on the single-cell level by flow cytometry. This technique allowed the simultaneous detection of
gagpol
mRNA, intracellular p24 Gag protein, and cell surface markers. Following stimulation of latently HIV-1-infected J89 cells with human tumor necrosis factor alpha (hTNF-α)/romidepsin (RMD) or HIV-1 infection of primary CD4
+
T cells, four cell populations were detected according to their expression levels of viral mRNA and protein.
gagpol
mRNA in J89 cells was quantifiable for the first time 3 h after stimulation with hTNF-α and 12 h after stimulation with RMD, while p24 Gag protein was detected for the first time after 18 h poststimulation. HIV-1-infected primary CD4
+
T cells downregulated CD4, BST-2, and HLA class I expression at early stages of infection, proceeding Gag protein detection. In conclusion, here we describe a novel approach allowing quantification of the kinetics of HIV-1 mRNA and protein synthesis on the single-cell level and phenotypic characterization of HIV-1-infected cells at different stages of the viral life cycle.

IMPORTANCE
Early after infection, HIV-1 establishes a pool of latently infected cells, which hide from the immune system. Latency reversal and immune-mediated elimination of these latently infected cells are some of the goals of current HIV-1 cure approaches; however, little is known about the HIV-1 reactivation kinetics following stimulation with latency-reversing agents. Here we describe a novel approach allowing for the first time quantification of the kinetics of HIV-1 mRNA and protein synthesis after latency reactivation or
de novo
infection on the single-cell level using flow cytometry. This new technique furthermore enabled the phenotypic characterization of latently infected and
de novo
-infected cells dependent on the presence of viral RNA or protein.
JNK Signaling: Regulation and Functions Based on Complex Protein-Protein Partnerships
Authors: Zeke András , Misheva Mariya , Reményi Attila , Bogoyevitch Marie A.
Published: July 2016

The c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNKs), as members of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family, mediate eukaryotic cell responses to a wide range of abiotic and biotic stress insults. JNKs also regulate important physiological processes, including neuronal functions, immunological actions, and embryonic development, via their impact on gene expression, cytoskeletal protein dynamics, and cell death/survival pathways. Although the JNK pathway has been under study for >20 years, its complexity is still perplexing, with multiple protein partners of JNKs underlying the diversity of actions. Here we review the current knowledge of JNK structure and isoforms as well as the partnerships of JNKs with a range of intracellular proteins. Many of these proteins are direct substrates of the JNKs. We analyzed almost 100 of these target proteins in detail within a framework of their classification based on their regulation by JNKs. Examples of these JNK substrates include a diverse assortment of nuclear transcription factors (Jun, ATF2, Myc, Elk1), cytoplasmic proteins involved in cytoskeleton regulation (DCX, Tau, WDR62) or vesicular transport (JIP1, JIP3), cell membrane receptors (BMPR2), and mitochondrial proteins (Mcl1, Bim). In addition, because upstream signaling components impact JNK activity, we critically assessed the involvement of signaling scaffolds and the roles of feedback mechanisms in the JNK pathway. Despite a clarification of many regulatory events in JNK-dependent signaling during the past decade, many other structural and mechanistic insights are just beginning to be revealed. These advances open new opportunities to understand the role of JNK signaling in diverse physiological and pathophysiological states.
Refractory tension pneumothorax as a result of an internally displaced thoracoamniotic shunt in an infant with a congenital pulmonary airway malformation
Authors: Law Brenda Hiu Yan , Bratu Ioana , Jain Venu , Landry Marc-Antoine
Published: July 2016

Antenatally, congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM) causing fetal hydrops can be palliated with thoracoamniotic shunts, which may become displaced in utero. We report a case of an infant born at 34 weeks gestational age with an antenatally diagnosed macrocystic lung lesion, fetal hydrops and an internally displaced thoracoamniotic shunt. The infant suffered refractory pneumothoraces despite multiple chest drains, and stabilised only after surgical resection of the lesion. Intraoperatively, the shunt was noted to form a connection between a type I CPAM and the pleural space. As the shunt was displaced internally, this complication was not immediately obvious during the initial resuscitation. In infants with large cystic lung lesions, clinicians should be aware that internally displaced thoracoamniotic shunts could contribute to refractory tension pneumothoraces and anticipate the need for advanced neonatal resuscitation, including early thoracocentesis or chest drain insertion. Furthermore, displaced shunts may require early surgical intervention.
Characteristics of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus newly treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists (CHADIG Study): a cross-sectional multicentre study in Spain
Authors: Conget Ignacio , Mauricio Dídac , Ortega Rafael , Detournay Bruno
Published: July 2016

Objective

Several glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (GLP-1Ra) have been made recently available in Spain for type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) treatment. There are no published data on the clinical and sociodemographic profile of patients initiating treatment with GLP-1Ra in Spain. Our objective was to understand these patients' characteristics in a real-world clinical practice setting.

Design

Cross-sectional observational study.

Setting

Spanish specialist outpatient clinics.

Participants

403 adults with DM2 initiating GLP-1Ra treatment were included.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Sociodemographic and DM2-related clinical data, including treatment at and after GLP-1Ra initiation and comorbidities, were collected.

Results

Evaluable patients (n=403; 50.9% female) were included (July 2013 to March 2014) at 24 centres by 53 specialists (47 endocrinology, 6 internal medicine), with the following profile (value±SD): age (58.3±10.4 years), diabetes duration (9.9±7 years), body mass index (BMI; 36.2±5.5) and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c; 8.4±1.4%); 14% had HbA1c≤7%. Previous antidiabetic treatment: 53.8% only oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs), 5.2% insulin and 40% insulin and OAD; of those receiving OAD, 35% single drug, 38.2% 2 drugs and 24% 3 drugs. Concomitant to GLP-1Ra, 55.3% were only on OAD, 36.2% on insulin and OAD, and 7.2% only on insulin. Of those receiving OAD, the GLP-1Ra was mainly associated with 1 drug (65%) or 2 drugs (31.8%). GLP-1Ra are frequently added to existing antidiabetic drugs, with dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors being the OAD most frequently switched (45% receiving 1 before starting GLP-1Ra, only 2.7% receiving it concomitantly).

Conclusions

In Spain, GLP-1Ra therapy is usually started in combination with OADs or OADs and insulin. These drugs are used in relatively young patients often not reaching therapeutic goals with other treatment combinations, roughly a decade after diagnosis and with a relatively high BMI. The latter could be explained by Spanish regional payers limiting reimbursed prescription to patients with a minimum BMI threshold (>30 in most regions, >35 in some).
Reducing CBC Clotting Rates in the Neonatal Patient Care Areas
Authors: McCoy Jennifer , Tichon Tanya , Narvey Michael
Published: July 2016

Performing a complete blood count (CBC) is a common test performed in neonatal intensive care. Samples reported as “clotted” are not able to be analyzed and require redraw. A perceived “high” clotting rate elicits frustration among team members and has negative effects on patient flow and patient satisfaction. Process mapping and a root cause analysis determined that an educational intervention was required to optimize blood collection skills of front-line nurses. Through four rapid PDSA cycles over a three year period, the neonatal patient care areas were able to decrease their CBC clotting rates from 30% (monthly rate when the problem was identified) to 16% (yearly average at the end of the project). The CBC clotting rates continue to decease over time due to the integration of a multi-faceted educational plan into biannual education days designed for current staff nurses, as well as into the orientation plan for newly hired and student nurses.
Validation of the Singapore nomogram for outcome prediction in breast phyllodes tumours: an Australian cohort
Authors: Chng Tze Wei , Lee Jonathan Y H , Lee C Soon , Li HuiHua , Tan Min-Han , Tan Puay Hoon
Published: July 2016

Aim

To validate the utility of the Singapore nomogram for outcome prediction in breast phyllodes tumours.

Methods

Histological parameters, surgical margin status and clinical follow-up data of 34 women diagnosed with phyllodes tumours were analysed. Biostatistics modelling was performed, and the concordance between predicted and observed survivals was calculated.

Results

Women with a high nomogram score had an increased risk of developing relapse, which was predicted using the parameters defined by the Singapore nomogram.

Conclusions

The Singapore nomogram is useful in predicting outcome in breast phyllodes tumours when applied to an Australian cohort of 34 women.
Lauric acid-rich medium-chain triglycerides can substitute for other oils in cooking applications and may have limited pathogenicity
Authors: McCarty Mark F , DiNicolantonio James J
Published: July 2016

Recently, medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) containing a large fraction of lauric acid (LA) (C12)—about 30%—have been introduced commercially for use in salad oils and in cooking applications. As compared to the long-chain fatty acids found in other cooking oils, the medium-chain fats in MCTs are far less likely to be stored in adipose tissue, do not give rise to ‘ectopic fat’ metabolites that promote insulin resistance and inflammation, and may be less likely to activate macrophages. When ingested, medium-chain fatty acids are rapidly oxidised in hepatic mitochondria; the resulting glut of acetyl-coenzyme A drives ketone body production and also provokes a thermogenic response. Hence, studies in animals and humans indicate that MCT ingestion is less obesogenic than comparable intakes of longer chain oils. Although LA tends to raise serum cholesterol, it has a more substantial impact on high density lipoprotein (HDL) than low density lipoprotein (LDL) in this regard, such that the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol decreases. LA constitutes about 50% of the fatty acid content of coconut oil; south Asian and Oceanic societies which use coconut oil as their primary source of dietary fat tend to be at low cardiovascular risk. Since ketone bodies can exert neuroprotective effects, the moderate ketosis induced by regular MCT ingestion may have neuroprotective potential. As compared to traditional MCTs featuring C6–C10, laurate-rich MCTs are more feasible for use in moderate-temperature frying and tend to produce a lower but more sustained pattern of blood ketone elevation owing to the more gradual hepatic oxidation of ingested laurate.
The effect of a single prerelease exposure to conspecific alarm cue on poststocking survival in three strains of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Kopack Christopher J. , Broder E. Dale , Fetherman Eric R. , Lepak Jesse M. , Angeloni Lisa M.
Published: July 2016

Significant resources go toward rearing and stocking fish globally, yet poststocking survival is often low, largely due to high predation rates on hatchery-reared fish. Antipredator behavior has been enhanced in many species through exposure to chemical cues that simulate predation events, but the implementation of such protocols may be logistically challenging. It has been suggested that a single exposure of hatchery fish to chemical cues while en route to stocking locations may be sufficient to enhance antipredator behavior and improve survival. We tested whether a one-time exposure to conspecific alarm cues while en route to a stocking site increased poststocking survival of three strains of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum, 1792)). We found no difference in mortality rates between strains or between treatment fish (exposed to alarm cues) and control fish (not exposed to alarm cues), suggesting that this quick and easy protocol was insufficient and that more complex techniques should be explored to increase poststocking survival.
Neutrino oscillations in the presence of super-light sterile neutrinos
Authors: Divari Paraskevi , Vergados John
Published: July 2016

In this paper, we study the effect of conversion of super-light sterile neutrino (SLSN) to electron neutrino in matter like that of the Earth. In the Sun the resonance conversion between SLSN and electron neutrino via the neutral current is suppressed due to the smallness of neutron number. On the other hand, neutron number density can play an important role in the Earth, making the scenario of SLSN quite interesting. The effect of CP-violating phases on active-SLSN oscillations is also discussed. Reactor neutrino experiments with medium or short baseline may probe the scenario of SLSN.
Finite-size scaling law in single-crystalline Fe3O4 hollow nanostructures
Authors: Zhang Xiaoping , Wang Jun , Gao Miao
Published: July 2016

Single-crystalline Fe3O4 hollow nanostructures (nanoring and nanotube) have been successfully synthesized by a hydrothermal method along with a heat treatment process. The temperature dependences of the magnetization of the hollow nanostructures were measured under a high vacuum ([Formula: see text] Torr) from 300[Formula: see text]K to 900[Formula: see text]K. The Curie temperatures of the nanoring and nanotube samples were found to decrease with decreasing the mean wall thickness. The Curie temperatures of the hollow magnetite nanostructures follow a finite-size scaling relation with the scaling exponent [Formula: see text]. By comparison with those of the zero-dimensional Fe3O4 particles and two-dimensional Fe3O4 films, we show that the scaling relation for our hollow nanostructures is in better agreement with the quasi-two-dimensional finite-size scaling law.
Gamma-ray burst cosmology: Hubble diagram and star formation history
Authors: Wei Jun-Jie , Wu Xue-Feng
Published: July 2016

We briefly introduce the disadvantages for Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) as standard candles to measure the universe, and suggest Gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) can serve as a powerful tool for probing the properties of high redshift universe. We use GRBs as distance indicators in constructing the Hubble diagram at redshifts beyond the current reach of SNe Ia observations. Since the progenitors of long GRBs (LGRBs) are confirmed to be massive stars, they are deemed as an effective approach to study the cosmic star formation rate (SFR). A detailed representation of how to measure high-[Formula: see text] SFR using GRBs is presented. Moreover, first stars can form only in structures that are suitably dense, which can be parametrized by defining the minimum dark matter halo mass [Formula: see text]. [Formula: see text] must play a crucial role in star formation. The association of LGRBs with the collapses of massive stars also indicates that the GRB data can be applied to constrain the minimum halo mass [Formula: see text] and to investigate star formation in dark matter halos.
A family of Finch and Skea relativistic stars
Authors: Maharaj S. D. , Kileba Matondo D. , Mafa Takisa P.
Published: July 2016

Several new families of exact solution to the Einstein–Maxwell system of differential equations are found for anisotropic charged matter. The spacetime geometry is that of Finch and Skea which satisfies all criteria for physical acceptability. The exact solutions can be expressed in terms of elementary functions, Bessel functions and modified Bessel functions. When a parameter is restricted to be an integer then the special functions reduce to simple elementary functions. The uncharged model of Finch and Skea [R. Finch and J. E. F. Skea, Class. Quantum Grav. 6 (1989) 467.] and the charged model of Hansraj and Maharaj [S. Hansraj and S. D. Maharaj, Int. J. Mod. Phys. D 15 (2006) 1311.] are regained as special cases. The solutions found admit a barotropic equation of state. A graphical analysis indicates that the matter and electric quantities are well behaved.
Computer Aided Diagnosis of Abdomen Diseases Using Curvelet Transform
Authors: Sethi Gaurav , Saini B. S.
Published: July 2016

Abdomen related diseases are responsible of many deaths every year. These deaths can be reduced by early diagnosis of abdomen diseases. Computer aided diagnosis (CAD) can play vital role in early detection of diseases. Hence, a novel CAD is proposed in this paper that can diagnose abdomen diseases like Hepatocellular carcinoma, cysts and Calculi using statistical curvelet texture descriptors. The proposed CAD is divided into four stages: (a) Image segmentation using active contours, (b) feature extraction, (c) feature selection and (d) abdomen disease classification. The regions of interest (ROIs) are segmented from 120[Formula: see text]CT images using active contour models. The statistical features are extracted from segmented ROIs. Further, the classifiers are used to evaluate the ability of feature set in diagnosis various diseases of abdomen. The performance metrics indicates that the proposed CAD achieves accuracy of 87.9% using curvelet coefficient features and neural network as classifier.
Intrinsic Pattern Preserving Boundary Treatment Method for Empirical Mode Decomposition
Authors: Kim Donghoh , Oh Hee-Seok
Published: July 2016

Empirical mode decomposition (EMD) is a procedure that decomposes a signal into so-called intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) according to the levels of local frequency. Due to its robustness to nonlinear and nonstationary signals, EMD has been widely used in various fields. However, EMD suffers from boundary problems severely. In this paper, an efficient method for boundary treatment is proposed. The proposed method consists of two stages. In the first stage, regression models are adapted to reproduce the intrinsic sinusoid pattern of a signal. Based on predicted values, the signal is extended beyond the boundaries in the second stage. Results from numerical studies including simulation study and a noisy signal analysis demonstrate that the proposed method alleviates the boundary problem and hence provides more accurate decomposition results.
Control of human energy expenditure by cytochrome c oxidase subunit IV-2
Authors: Schiffer Tomas A. , Peleli Maria , Sundqvist Michaela L. , Ekblom Björn , Lundberg Jon O. , Weitzberg Eddie , Larsen Filip J.
Published: July 2016

Resting metabolic rate (RMR) in humans shows pronounced individual variations, but the underlying molecular mechanism remains elusive. Cytochrome c oxidase (COX) plays a key role in control of metabolic rate, and recent studies of the subunit 4 isoform 2 (COX IV-2) indicate involvement in the cellular response to hypoxia and oxidative stress. We evaluated whether the COX subunit IV isoform composition may explain the pronounced individual variations in resting metabolic rate (RMR). RMR was determined in healthy humans by indirect calorimetry and correlated to levels of COX IV-2 and COX IV-1 in vastus lateralis. Overexpression and knock down of the COX IV isoforms were performed in primary myotubes followed by evaluation of the cell respiration and production of reactive oxygen species. Here we show that COX IV-2 protein is constitutively expressed in human skeletal muscle and strongly correlated to RMR. Primary human myotubes overexpressing COX IV-2 displayed markedly (>60%) lower respiration, reduced (>50%) cellular H2O2 production, higher resistance toward both oxidative stress, and severe hypoxia compared with control cells. These results suggest an important role of isoform COX IV-2 in the control of energy expenditure, hypoxic tolerance, and mitochondrial ROS homeostasis in humans.
Autophagy confers resistance to lipopolysaccharide-induced mouse hepatocyte injury
Authors: Lalazar Gadi , Ilyas Ghulam , Malik Shoaib Ahmad , Liu Kun , Zhao Enpeng , Amir Mohammad , Lin Yu , Tanaka Kathryn E. , Czaja Mark J.
Published: July 2016

During sepsis, bacterial products, particularly LPS, trigger injury in organs such as the liver. This common condition remains largely untreatable, in part due to a lack of understanding of how high concentrations of LPS cause cellular injury. In the liver, the lysosomal degradative pathway of autophagy performs essential hepatoprotective functions and is induced by LPS. We, therefore, examined whether hepatocyte autophagy protects against liver injury from septic levels of LPS. Mice with an inducible hepatocyte-specific knockout of the critical autophagy gene Atg7 were examined for their sensitivity to high-dose LPS. Increased liver injury occurred in knockout mice, as determined by significantly increased serum alanine aminotransferase levels, histological evidence of liver injury, terminal deoxynucleotide transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end-labeling, and effector caspase-3 and -7 activation. Hepatic inflammation and proinflammatory cytokine induction were unaffected by the decrease in hepatocyte autophagy. Although knockout mice had normal NF-κB signaling, hepatic levels of Akt1 and Akt2 phosphorylation in response to LPS were decreased. Cultured hepatocytes from knockout mice displayed a generalized defect in Akt signaling in response to multiple stimuli, including LPS, TNF, and IL-1β. Akt activation mediates hepatocyte resistance to TNF cytotoxicity, and anti-TNF antibodies significantly decreased LPS-induced liver injury in knockout mice, indicating that the loss of autophagy sensitized to TNF-dependent liver damage. Hepatocyte autophagy, therefore, protects against LPS-induced liver injury. Conditions such as aging and steatosis that impair hepatic autophagy may predispose to poor outcomes from sepsis through this mechanism.
GABAergic and Glutamatergic Modulation of Spontaneous and Motor-Cortex-Evoked Complex Spike Activity
Authors: Lang Eric J.
Published: July 2016

Olivocerebellar activity is organized such that synchronous complex spikes occur primarily among Purkinje cells located within the same parasagittally oriented strip of cortex. Previous findings have shown that this synchrony distribution is modulated by the release of GABA and glutamate within the inferior olive, which probably act by controlling the efficacy of the electrotonic coupling between olivary neurons. The relative strengths of these two neurotransmitters in modulating the patterns of synchrony were compared by obtaining multiple electrode recordings of spontaneous crus 2a complex spike activity during intraolivary injection of solutions containing a GABAA (picrotoxin) and/or AMPA [1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-6-nitro-2,3-dioxo-benzo[f]quinoxaline-7-sulfonamide disodium (NBQX)] receptor antagonist. Injection of either antagonist led to increased synchrony between cells located within the same parasagittally oriented ≈250-μm-wide cortical strip. Picrotoxin also increased complex spike synchrony among cells located in different cortical strips, leading to a less prominent banding pattern, whereas injections of NBQX tended to decrease complex spike synchrony among such cells, enhancing the banding pattern. The relative strength of these two classes of olivary afferents was assessed by first injecting one of the antagonists alone and then in combination with the other. The enhanced banding pattern of complex spike synchrony following injection of NBQX alone remained during the subsequent combined injection of both antagonists. Furthermore, the widespread synchronization of complex spike activity following injection of picrotoxin alone was partially or completely reversed by combined injection of picrotoxin and NBQX. Changes in the climbing fiber reflex induced by the intraolivary injections paralleled the changes observed for spontaneous complex spike activity, indicating that the effects of picrotoxin and NBQX on the synchrony distribution reflect changes in the pattern of effective coupling of inferior olivary neurons and demonstrating that synchronous complex spike activity does not require simultaneous excitatory input to olivary cells. Finally the pattern of synchrony during motor cortical stimulation was examined. It was found that the patterns of synchrony for motor-cortex-evoked complex spike activity were similar to those of spontaneous activity, indicating an important role for electrotonic coupling in determining the response of the olivocerebellar system to afferent input. Moreover, intraolivary injections of picrotoxin increased the spatial distribution of the evoked response. In sum, the results provide evidence for the hypothesis that electrotonic coupling of inferior olivary neurons via gap junctions is the mechanism underlying complex spike synchrony and that this coupling plays an important role in determining the responses of the olivocerebellar system to synaptic input.
Common Drive in Motor Units of a Synergistic Muscle Pair
Authors: De Luca Carlo J. , Erim Zeynep
Published: July 2016

The interaction among the motor units of the extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL) and the extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) muscles in man was studied during wrist extensions in which the two muscles acted as synergists. Intramuscular recordings were obtained using special quadrifilar needle electrodes. Isometric wrist extensions at 20–30% of the maximal effort were studied. The electromyographic (EMG) signals were decomposed into the individual motor-unit action potential trains comprising the signal. The interaction among motor units were characterized by the estimated time-varying mean firing rate and the cross-correlation between the time-varying mean firing rates of pairs of motor units. Pairs of motor units within each muscle as well as pairs of motor units across the muscles were considered. In-phase common fluctuations, termed common drive, were observed in the mean firing rates of motor units within each muscle, consistent with earlier work on other muscles. Common fluctuations were also observed between the firing rates of ECU and ECRL motor units albeit with a variable phase shift. The existence of common drive across synergistic muscles was interpreted as implying that the CNS considers the muscles as a functional unit when they act as synergists.
The Effect of the Duration of Basic Life Support Training on the Learners’ Cardiopulmonary and Automated External Defibrillator Skills
Authors: Lee Jin Hyuck , Cho Youngsuk , Kang Ku Hyun , Cho Gyu Chong , Song Keun Jeong , Lee Chang Hee
Published: July 2016

Background. Basic life support (BLS) training with hands-on practice can improve performance during simulated cardiac arrest, although the optimal duration for BLS training is unknown. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of various BLS training durations for acquiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillator (AED) skills.Methods. We randomised 485 South Korean nonmedical college students into four levels of BLS training: level 1 (40 min), level 2 (80 min), level 3 (120 min), and level 4 (180 min). Before and after each level, the participants completed questionnaires regarding their willingness to perform CPR and use AEDs, and their psychomotor skills for CPR and AED use were assessed using a manikin with Skill-Reporter™ software.Results. There were no significant differences between levels 1 and 2, although levels 3 and 4 exhibited significant differences in the proportion of overall adequate chest compressions (p<0.001) and average chest compression depth (p=0.003). All levels exhibited a greater posttest willingness to perform CPR and use AEDs (all,p<0.001).Conclusions. Brief BLS training provided a moderate level of skill for performing CPR and using AEDs. However, high-quality skills for CPR required longer and hands-on training, particularly hands-on training with AEDs.
Optimization of Automotive Suspension System by Design of Experiments: A Nonderivative Method
Authors: Mitra Anirban C. , Soni Tanushri , Kiranchand G. R.
Published: July 2016

A lot of health issues like low back pain, digestive disorders, and musculoskeletal disorders are caused as a result of the whole body vibrations induced by automobiles. This paper is concerned with the enhancement and optimization of suspension performance by using factorial methods of Design of Experiments, a nonderivative method. It focuses on the optimization of ride comfort and determining the parameters which affect the suspension behavior significantly as per the guidelines stated in ISO 2631-1:1997 standards. A quarter car test rig integrated with a LabVIEW based data acquisition system was developed to understand the real time behavior of a vehicle. In the pilot experiment, only three primary suspension parameters, that is, spring-stiffness, damping, and sprung mass, were considered and the full factorial method was implemented for the purpose of optimization. But the regression analysis of the data obtained rendered a very low goodness of fit which indicated that other parameters are likely to influence the response. Subsequently, steering geometry angles, camber and toe and tire pressure, were included in the design. Fractional factorial method with six factors was implemented to optimize ride comfort. The resultant optimum combination was then verified on the test rig with high correlation.
Comparison of TIVA and Desflurane Added to a Subanaesthetic Dose of Propofol in Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery: Evaluation of Haemodynamic and Stress Hormone Changes
Authors: Onk Didem , Akarsu Ayazoğlu Tülin , Onk Oruç Alper , Aksüt Mehmet , Günay Murat , Turkmen Kultigin , Özensoy Aynur , Yazıcı Ersoy Çiğdem , Çoban Abdulkadir
Published: July 2016

Introduction. Increased levels of stress hormones are associated with mortality in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).Aim. To compare total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA) and desflurane added to a subanaesthetic dose of propofol.Material and Methods. Fifty patients were enrolled in this study. Fentanyl (3–5 mcg/kg/h) was started in both groups. Patients were divided into two groups. The PD group (n=25) received 1 minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) desflurane anaesthesia in addition to propofol infusion (2-3 mg/kg/h), while P group (n=25) received propofol infusion (5-6 mg/kg/h) only. Biochemical data, cortisol, and insulin levels were measured preoperatively (T0), after initiation of CPB but before cross-clamping the aorta (T1), after removal of the cross-clamp (T2), and at the 24th postoperative hour (T3).Results. Systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial pressure levels were significantly higher in PD group than those in P group in T1 and T2 measurements (p≤0.05). CK-MB showed a significant decrease in group P (p≤0.05). When we compared both groups, cortisol levels were significantly higher in PD group than P group (p≤0.05).Conclusion. Stress and haemodynamic responses were better controlled using TIVA than desflurane inhalation added to a subanaesthetic dose of propofol in patients undergoing CABG.
Attitude, Knowledge, and Practice on Evidence‐Based Nursing among Registered Nurses in Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospitals: A Multiple Center Cross‐Sectional Survey in China
Authors: Zhou Fen , Hao Yufang , Guo Hong , Liu Hongxia
Published: July 2016

Objective. This study was to describe RNs’ attitude, knowledge, and practice on evidence‐based practice (EBP) in traditional Chinese nursing field and to estimate the related sociodemographic and professional factors. Methods. A multiple institutional cross‐sectional survey design with self‐reported EBP Questionnaire (EBPQ) and self‐designed questionnaires were used. Results. The average scores of the total EBPQ were with a mean of 4.24 (SD = 0.79). The score of attitude was the highest one, followed by the knowledge score, and the lowest one is practice. RNs with longer experience reported stronger EBP knowledge (H = 6.64, P < 0.05). And RNs under higher working pressure reported less positive attitudes (ρ = 0.17, P < 0.001), whereas RNs holding negative professional attitude reported lower scores (Spearman’s ρ: 0.12 to 0.15, P < 0.001). Significant statistics were found between RNs with research experience and without in attitude (t = −2.40, P < 0.05) and knowledge (t = −2.43, P < 0.05). Conclusions. Respondents generally viewed EBP positively and their attitudes towards EBP tended to be more positive than knowledge and practice of EBP. Data also showed that longer working experience, having administrative position, research experience, lighter working load, and better professional attitude might facilitate EBP.
Xanthine Oxidase‐Derived ROS Display a Biphasic Effect on Endothelial Cells Adhesion and FAK Phosphorylation
Authors: Ben-Mahdi Meriem H. , Dang Pham My-Chan , Gougerot-Pocidalo Marie-Anne , O’Dowd Yvonne , El-Benna Jamel , Pasquier Catherine
Published: July 2016

In pathological situations such as ischemia‐reperfusion and acute respiratory distress syndrome, reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced by different systems which are involved in endothelial cells injury, ultimately leading to severe organ dysfunctions. The aim of this work was to study the effect of ROS produced by hypoxanthine‐xanthine oxidase (Hx‐XO) on the adhesion of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and on the signaling pathways involved. Results show that Hx‐XO‐derived ROS induced an increase in HUVEC adhesion in the early stages of the process (less than 30 min), followed by a decrease in adhesion in the later stages of the process. Interestingly, Hx‐XO‐derived ROS induced the same biphasic effect on the phosphorylation of the focal adhesion kinase (FAK), a nonreceptor tyrosine kinase critical for cell adhesion, but not on ERK1/2 phosphorylation. The biphasic effect was not seen with ERK1/2 where a decrease in phosphorylation only was observed. Wortmannin, a PI3‐kinase inhibitor, inhibited ROS‐induced cell adhesion and FAK phosphorylation. Orthovanadate, a protein tyrosine phosphatase inhibitor, and Resveratrol (Resv), an antioxidant agent, protected FAK and ERK1/2 from dephosphorylation and HUVEC from ROS‐induced loss of adhesion. This study shows that ROS could have both stimulatory and inhibitory effects on HUVEC adhesion and FAK phosphorylation and suggests that PI3‐kinase and tyrosine phosphatase control these effects.
Antipsychotic Treatment Reduces Indices of Oxidative Stress in First‐Episode Psychosis Patients
Authors: Kriisa Kärt , Haring Liina , Vasar Eero , Koido Kati , Janno Sven , Vasar Veiko , Zilmer Kersti , Zilmer Mihkel
Published: July 2016

38 first‐episode psychosis (FEP) patients and 37 control subjects were recruited for the study of indices of oxidative stress (OxS). The main purpose of the study was to compare the OxS statuses (serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total level of peroxides (TPX), oxidative stress index (OSI), and ratio oxidized methionine (Met‐SO) to methionine (Met)) between antipsychotic‐naïve FEP patients and individuals without a history of psychiatric disorders. Subsequently, the impact of 7‐month antipsychotic treatment was evaluated on the OxS status in FEP patients. An attempt was made to assess links between OxS signature and inflammation markers. The oxidative stress indices remained generally unchanged in antipsychotic‐naïve FEP patients compared to control subjects. Despite that, there was a significant correlation between the levels of TPX and EGF (endothelial growth factor) in FEP patients. This correlation disappeared after antipsychotic treatment of FEP patients. Moreover, antipsychotic treatment was associated with a significant reduction in OxS indices, including TPX, OSI, and ratio between Met‐SO and Met. By contrast, in chronic SCZ patients we established a significant high‐grade OxS. In conclusion, the markers of total antioxidative capacity, lipid peroxidation, and protein oxidation revealed no high‐grade OxS in FEP patients. Nevertheless, antipsychotic treatment induced a considerable anti‐inflammatory effect. OxS levels were also significantly decreased if compared in FEP patients before and after antipsychotic treatment.