bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transition to subcritical turbulence in a tokamak plasma
Authors: van Wyk F. , Highcock E. G. , Schekochihin A. A. , Roach C. M. , Field A. R. , Dorland W.
Published: January 2017

Tokamak turbulence, driven by the ion-temperature gradient and occurring in the presence of flow shear, is investigated by means of local, ion-scale, electrostatic gyrokinetic simulations (with both kinetic ions and electrons) of the conditions in the outer core of the Mega-Ampere Spherical Tokamak (MAST). A parameter scan in the local values of the ion-temperature gradient and flow shear is performed. It is demonstrated that the experimentally observed state is near the stability threshold and that this stability threshold is nonlinear: sheared turbulence is subcritical, i.e. the system is formally stable to small perturbations, but, given a large enough initial perturbation, it transitions to a turbulent state. A scenario for such a transition is proposed and supported by numerical results: close to threshold, the nonlinear saturated state and the associated anomalous heat transport are dominated by long-lived coherent structures, which drift across the domain, have finite amplitudes, but are not volume filling; as the system is taken away from the threshold into the more unstable regime, the number of these structures increases until they overlap and a more conventional chaotic state emerges. Whereas this appears to represent a new scenario for transition to turbulence in tokamak plasmas, it is reminiscent of the behaviour of other subcritically turbulent systems, e.g. pipe flows and Keplerian magnetorotational accretion flows.
Ion reflection by shock waves and pulse generation by cross-field ion beams
Authors: Ohsawa Yukiharu
Published: January 2017

Comparisons are made of two different particle simulations: one for the study of plasma-based accelerators (Gueroult & Fisch, Phys. Plasmas, vol. 23, 2016, 032113) and the other for the study of shock formation in the interstellar medium (Yamauchi & Ohsawa, Phys. Plasmas, vol. 14, 2007, 053110). In the former, shock waves used for plasma density control create ion beams by reflection. In the latter, a fast and dense beam of exploding ions penetrates a surrounding plasma. In both simulations, magnetic bumps are generated from the motion of ion beams perpendicular to a magnetic field. Despite the apparent differences of their purposes, configurations and spatial scales, the two simulations show strong similarities in the generation processes and effects of the bumps, suggesting that these are not rare plasma phenomena. The bump created by the exploding ions develops into backward and forward magnetosonic pulses.
What Drives Institutional Reforms in Regional Organisations? Diffusion, Contextual Conditions, and the Modular Design of ASEAN
Authors: Jetschke Anja
Published: January 2017

What drives institutional reforms in regional organisations? And what explains the institutional design of ASEAN? Despite many differences, conventional approaches to the institutional design of regional organisations more generally and ASEAN in particular are united in regarding them as either determined by factors endogenous to the region − such as varying state interests or collective norms − or as exogenously driven, most importantly by hegemonic states like the US or China. This article offers a diffusion account of ASEAN's institutional design. Building on a more recent strand in the diffusion literature emphasising that diffusion rarely leads to convergence, the article makes two genuine contributions. First, it argues that members of regional organisations engage in modular adoption: they select institutional templates from a variety of regional as well as international organisations thereby taking advantage of available information on the costs and benefits of alternative institutions. Second, it argues that contextual conditions and cognitive priors influence what templates are chosen. The argument will be illustrated with a case study on ASEAN's adoption of a single market and a dispute settlement mechanism. Finally, and contrary to arguments that institutional borrowing might increase the expectations-deliverance gap within regional organisations, it argues that if conducted consistently, modular adoption can lead to substantial innovation and success.
Dimensions of the Rorschach Comprehensive System
Authors: Fontan Patrick , Andronikof Anne , Mattlar Carl-Erik , Mormont Christian
Published: January 2017

Abstract. The objective of this study is to propose a preliminary comprehensive dimensional model of the Rorschach Comprehensive System (RCS). Three European adult nonpatient samples of the RCS were combined (Belgium, France, and Finland, N = 695). Principal component analysis was performed on primary scoring categories. Distribution issues were addressed by rank order transformation and the problem of R by partial correlations. The number of Components was determined through Parallel Analysis and resampling techniques (bootstrap and permutation). Twelve Components eigenvalues differed significantly from chance level (p < 0.0001). The obtained model provides a simplified representation of RCS data which accounts for 43% of the variance. This model brings new insights: Some variables traditionally considered as related belong to independent dimensions, and some others considered as independent appear related. These preliminary results set the stage for a new psychometrical approach of the RCS.
Electromagnetic polarization-controlled perfect switching effect with high-refractive-index dimers and the beam-splitter configuration
Authors: Barreda Ángela I. , Saleh Hassan , Litman Amelie , González Francisco , Geffrin Jean-Michel , Moreno Fernando
Published: January 2017

Sub-wavelength particles made from high-index dielectrics, either individual or as ensembles, are ideal candidates for multifunctional elements in optical devices. Their directionality effects are traditionally analysed through forward and backward measurements, even if these directions are not convenient for in-plane scattering practical purposes. Here we present unambiguous experimental evidence in the microwave range that for a dimer of HRI spherical particles, a perfect switching effect is observed out of those directions as a consequence of the mutual particle electric/magnetic interaction. The binary state depends on the excitation polarization. Its analysis is performed through the linear polarization degree of scattered radiation at a detection direction perpendicular to the incident direction: the beam-splitter configuration. The scaling property of Maxwell’s equations allows the generalization of our results to other frequency ranges and dimension scales, for instance, the visible and the nanometric scale.
Metabolic pathway for a new strain Pseudomonas synxantha LSH-7′: from chemotaxis to uptake of n-hexadecane
Authors: Meng Long , Li Haoshuai , Bao Mutai , Sun Peiyan
Published: January 2017

Bacteria can use n-hexadecane as a carbon source, but it remains incompletely understood whether n-hexadecane is transformed into metabolic intermediates prior to cellular uptake or not. We newly isolated a strain identified as Pseudomonas synxantha LSH-7′ and conducted chemotaxis experiment of this bacterial strain towards n-hexadecane, hexadecanol and hexadecanoic acid with qualitative assays respectively. Furthermore, we described the identification of extracellular alkane hydroxylase and alcohol dehydrogenase activity; acidification of the culture medium; identification of hexadecanoic acid in the culture medium by the GC-MS analysis; and variation concentration of intracellular n-hexadecane and hexadecanoic acid. A detailed analysis of the experimental data revealed the chemotaxis of this bacterial strain towards n-hexadecane instead of its metabolic intermediates. Our results further suggested that only a fraction of total n-hexadecane followed this path, and alkane hydrolase and hexadecanol dehydrogenase were constitutively expressed when grown in the medium of n-hexadecane. Most strikingly, we quantitatively investigated the concentration of n-hexadecane adsorbed by bacterial chemotaxis. Our findings provided an original insight n-hexadecane might be converted to hexadecanoic acid extracellularly before it was taken up across the cell membrane.
A Light-Responsive Self-Assembly Formed by a Cationic Azobenzene Derivative and SDS as a Drug Delivery System
Authors: Geng Shengyong , Wang Yuzhu , Wang Liping , Kouyama Tsutomu , Gotoh Toshiaki , Wada Satoshi , Wang Jin-Ye
Published: January 2017

The structure of a self-assembly formed from a cationic azobenzene derivative, 4-cholesterocarbonyl-4′-(N,N,N-triethylamine butyloxyl bromide) azobenzene (CAB) and surfactant sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) in aqueous solution was studied by cryo-TEM and synchrotron radiation small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). Both unilamellar and multilamellar vesicles could be observed. CAB in vesicles were capable to undergo reversible trans-to-cis isomerization upon UV or visible light irradiation. The structural change upon UV light irradiation could be catched by SAXS, which demonstrated that the interlamellar spacing of the cis-multilamellar vesicles increased by 0.2–0.3 nm. Based on this microstructural change, the release of rhodamine B (RhB) and doxorubicin (DOX) could be triggered by UV irradiation. When incubated NIH 3T3 cells and Bel 7402 cells with DOX-loaded CAB/SDS vesicles, UV irradiation induced DOX release decreased the viability of both cell lines significantly compared with the non-irradiated cells. The in vitro experiment indicated that CAB/SDS vesicles had high efficiency to deliver loaded molecules into cells. The in vivo experiment showed that CAB/SDS vesicles not only have high drug delivery efficiency into rat retinas, but also could maintain high drug concentration for a longer time. CAB/SDS catanionic vesicles may find potential applications as a smart drug delivery system for controlled release by light.
A comprehensive custom panel design for routine hereditary cancer testing: preserving control, improving diagnostics and revealing a complex variation landscape
Authors: Castellanos Elisabeth , Gel Bernat , Rosas Inma , Tornero Eva , Santín Sheila , Pluvinet Raquel , Velasco Juan , Sumoy Lauro , del Valle Jesús , Perucho Manuel , Blanco Ignacio , Navarro Matilde , Brunet Joan , Pineda Marta , Feliubadaló Lidia , Capellá Gabi , Lázaro Conxi , Serra Eduard
Published: January 2017

We wanted to implement an NGS strategy to globally analyze hereditary cancer with diagnostic quality while retaining the same degree of understanding and control we had in pre-NGS strategies. To do this, we developed the I2HCP panel, a custom bait library covering 122 hereditary cancer genes. We improved bait design, tested different NGS platforms and created a clinically driven custom data analysis pipeline. The I2HCP panel was developed using a training set of hereditary colorectal cancer, hereditary breast and ovarian cancer and neurofibromatosis patients and reached an accuracy, analytical sensitivity and specificity greater than 99%, which was maintained in a validation set. I2HCP changed our diagnostic approach, involving clinicians and a genetic diagnostics team from panel design to reporting. The new strategy improved diagnostic sensitivity, solved uncertain clinical diagnoses and identified mutations in new genes. We assessed the genetic variation in the complete set of hereditary cancer genes, revealing a complex variation landscape that coexists with the disease-causing mutation. We developed, validated and implemented a custom NGS-based strategy for hereditary cancer diagnostics that improved our previous workflows. Additionally, the existence of a rich genetic variation in hereditary cancer genes favors the use of this panel to investigate their role in cancer risk.
Sequence specific sorting of DNA molecules with FACS using 3dPCR
Authors: Sukovich David J. , Lance Shea T. , Abate Adam R.
Published: January 2017

Genetic heterogeneity is an important feature of many biological systems, but introduces technical challenges to their characterization. Even with the best modern instruments, only a small fraction of DNA molecules present in a sample can be read, and they are recovered in the form of short, hundred-base reads. In this paper, we introduce 3dPCR, a method to sort DNA molecules with sequence specificity. 3dPCR allows heterogeneous populations of DNA to be sorted to recover long targets for deep sequencing. It is valuable whenever a target sequence is rare in a mixed population, such as for characterizing mutations in heterogeneous cancer cell populations or identifying cells containing a specific genetic sequence or infected with a target virus.
Estimation of nonclassical independent Gaussian processes by classical interferometry
Authors: Ruppert László , Filip Radim
Published: January 2017

We propose classical interferometry with low-intensity thermal radiation for the estimation of nonclassical independent Gaussian processes in material samples. We generally determine the mean square error of the phase-independent parameters of an unknown Gaussian process, considering a noisy source of radiation the phase of which is not locked to the pump of the process. We verify the sufficiency of passive optical elements in the interferometer, active optical elements do not improve the quality of the estimation. We also prove the robustness of the method against the noise and loss in both interferometric channels and the sample. The proposed method is suitable even for the case when a source of radiation sufficient for homodyne detection is not available.
Promotion of natural tooth repair by small molecule GSK3 antagonists
Authors: Neves Vitor C. M. , Babb Rebecca , Chandrasekaran Dhivya , Sharpe Paul T.
Published: January 2017

The restoration of dentine lost in deep caries lesions in teeth is a routine and common treatment that involves the use of inorganic cements based on calcium or silicon-based mineral aggregates. Such cements remain in the tooth and fail to degrade and thus normal mineral volume is never completely restored. Here we describe a novel, biological approach to dentine restoration that stimulates the natural formation of reparative dentine via the mobilisation of resident stem cells in the tooth pulp. Biodegradable, clinically-approved collagen sponges are used to deliver low doses of small molecule glycogen synthase kinase (GSK-3) antagonists that promote the natural processes of reparative dentine formation to completely restore dentine. Since the carrier sponge is degraded over time, dentine replaces the degraded sponge leading to a complete, effective natural repair. This simple, rapid natural tooth repair process could thus potentially provide a new approach to clinical tooth restoration.
Superconductivity Bordering Rashba Type Topological Transition
Authors: Jin M. L. , Sun F. , Xing L. Y. , Zhang S. J. , Feng S. M. , Kong P. P. , Li W. M. , Wang X. C. , Zhu J. L. , Long Y. W. , Bai H. Y. , Gu C. Z. , Yu R. C. , Yang W. G. , Shen G. Y. , Zhao Y. S. , Mao H. K. , Jin C. Q.
Published: January 2017

Strong spin orbital interaction (SOI) can induce unique quantum phenomena such as topological insulators, the Rashba effect, or p-wave superconductivity. Combining these three quantum phenomena into a single compound has important scientific implications. Here we report experimental observations of consecutive quantum phase transitions from a Rashba type topological trivial phase to topological insulator state then further proceeding to superconductivity in a SOI compound BiTeI tuned via pressures. The electrical resistivity measurement with V shape change signals the transition from a Rashba type topological trivial to a topological insulator phase at 2 GPa, which is caused by an energy gap close then reopen with band inverse. Superconducting transition appears at 8 GPa with a critical temperature TC of 5.3 K. Structure refinements indicate that the consecutive phase transitions are correlated to the changes in the Bi–Te bond and bond angle as function of pressures. The Hall Effect measurements reveal an intimate relationship between superconductivity and the unusual change in carrier density that points to possible unconventional superconductivity.
Identification of small RNAs in extracellular vesicles from the commensal yeast Malassezia sympodialis
Authors: Rayner Simon , Bruhn Sören , Vallhov Helen , Andersson Anna , Billmyre R. Blake , Scheynius Annika
Published: January 2017

Malassezia is the dominant fungus in the human skin mycobiome and is associated with common skin disorders including atopic eczema (AE)/dermatitis. Recently, it was found that Malassezia sympodialis secretes nanosized exosome-like vesicles, designated MalaEx, that carry allergens and can induce inflammatory cytokine responses. Extracellular vesicles from different cell-types including fungi have been found to deliver functional RNAs to recipient cells. In this study we assessed the presence of small RNAs in MalaEx and addressed if the levels of these RNAs differ when M. sympodialis is cultured at normal human skin pH versus the elevated pH present on the skin of patients with AE. The total number and the protein concentration of the released MalaEx harvested after 48 h culture did not differ significantly between the two pH conditions nor did the size of the vesicles. From small RNA sequence data, we identified a set of reads with well-defined start and stop positions, in a length range of 16 to 22 nucleotides consistently present in the MalaEx. The levels of small RNAs were not significantly differentially expressed between the two different pH conditions indicating that they are not influenced by the elevated pH level observed on the AE skin.
The histone 3 lysine 9 methyltransferase inhibitor chaetocin improves prognosis in a rat model of high salt diet-induced heart failure
Authors: Ono Tomohiko , Kamimura Naomi , Matsuhashi Tomohiro , Nagai Toshihiro , Nishiyama Takahiko , Endo Jin , Hishiki Takako , Nakanishi Tsuyoshi , Shimizu Noriaki , Tanaka Hirotoshi , Ohta Shigeo , Suematsu Makoto , Ieda Masaki , Sano Motoaki , Fukuda Keiichi , Kaneda Ruri
Published: January 2017

Histone acetylation has been linked to cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. However, the pathological implications of changes in histone methylation and the effects of interventions with histone methyltransferase inhibitors for heart failure have not been fully clarified. Here, we focused on H3K9me3 status in the heart and investigated the effects of the histone H3K9 methyltransferase inhibitor chaetocin on prognoses in Dahl salt-sensitive rats, an animal model of chronic heart failure. Chaetocin prolonged survival and restored mitochondrial dysfunction. ChIP-seq analysis demonstrated that chronic stress to the heart induced H3K9me3 elevation in thousands of repetitive elements, including intronic regions of mitochondria-related genes, such as the gene encoding peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator 1 alpha. Furthermore, chaetocin reversed this effect on these repetitive loci. These data suggested that excessive heterochromatinization of repetitive elements of mitochondrial genes in the failing heart may lead to the silencing of genes and impair heart function. Thus, chaetocin may be a potential therapeutic agent for chronic heart failure.
Production of itaconate by whole-cell bioconversion of citrate mediated by expression of multiple cis-aconitate decarboxylase (cadA) genes in Escherichia coli
Authors: Kim Junyoung , Seo Hyung-Min , Bhatia Shashi Kant , Song Hun-Seok , Kim Jung-Ho , Jeon Jong-Min , Choi Kwon-Young , Kim Wooseong , Yoon Jeong-Jun , Kim Yun-Gon , Yang Yung-Hun
Published: January 2017

Itaconate, a C5 unsaturated dicarboxylic acid, is an important chemical building block that is used in manufacturing high-value products, such as latex and superabsorbent polymers. Itaconate is produced by fermentation of sugars by the filamentous fungus Aspergillus terreus. However, fermentation by A. terreus involves a long fermentation period and the formation of various byproducts, resulting in high production costs. E. coli has been developed as an alternative for producing itaconate. However, fermentation of glucose gives low conversion yields and low productivity. Here, we report the whole-cell bioconversion of citrate to itaconate with enhanced aconitase and cis-aconitate decarboxylase activities by controlling the expression of multiple cadA genes. In addition, this bioconversion system does not require the use of buffers, which reduces the production cost and the byproducts released during purification. Using this whole-cell bioconversion system, we were able to catalyze the conversion of 319.8 mM of itaconate (41.6 g/L) from 500 mM citrate without any buffer system or additional cofactors, with 64.0% conversion in 19 h and a productivity of 2.19 g/L/h. Our bioconversion system suggests very high productivity for itaconate production.
U24 from Roseolovirus interacts strongly with Nedd4 WW Domains
Authors: Sang Yurou , Zhang Rui , Scott Walter R. P. , Creagh A. Louise , Haynes Charles A. , Straus Suzana K.
Published: January 2017

U24 is a protein found in both roseoloviruses Human Herpes Virus type 6 and 7 (HHV-6 and HHV-7), with an N-terminus that is rich in prolines (PY motif in both HHV-6A and 7; PxxP motif in HHV-6A). Previous work has shown that the interaction between U24 and WW domains is important for endocytic recycling of T-cell receptors, but a cognate ligand was never identified. In this contribution, data was obtained from pull-downs, ITC, NMR and molecular dynamics simulations to show that a specific interaction exists between U24 and Nedd4 WW domains. ITC experiments were also carried out for U24 from HHV-6A phosphorylated at Thr6 (pU24-6A) and a peptide containing the PY motif from Nogo-A, a protein implicated in both the initial inflammatory and the neurodegenerative phases of multiple sclerosis (MS). The results suggest that phosphorylation of U24 from HHV-6A may be crucial for its potential role in MS.
Validation of suitable normalizers for miR expression patterns analysis covering tumour heterogeneity
Authors: Morata-Tarifa C. , Picon-Ruiz M. , Griñan-Lison C. , Boulaiz H. , Perán M. , Garcia M. A. , Marchal J. A.
Published: January 2017

Oncogenic microRNAs (miRs) have emerged as diagnostic biomarkers and novel molecular targets for anti-cancer drug therapies. Real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) is one of the most powerful techniques for analyzing miRs; however, the use of unsuitable normalizers might bias the results. Tumour heterogeneity makes even more difficult the selection of an adequate endogenous normalizer control. Here, we have evaluated five potential referenced small RNAs (U6, rRNA5s, SNORD44, SNORD24andhsa-miR-24c-3p) using RedFinder algorisms to perform a stability expression analysis in i) normal colon cells, ii) colon and breast cancer cell lines and iii) cancer stem-like cell subpopulations. We identifiedSNORD44as a suitable housekeeping gene for qPCR analysis comparing normal and cancer cells. However, this small nucleolar RNA was not a useful normalizer for cancer stem-like cell subpopulations versus subpopulations without stemness properties. In addition, we show for the first time thathsa-miR-24c-3pis the most stable normalizer for comparing these two subpopulations. Also, we have identified by bioinformatic and qPCR analysis, different miR expression patterns in colon cancer versus non tumour cells using the previously selected suitable normalizers. Our results emphasize the importance of select suitable normalizers to ensure the robustness and reliability of qPCR data for analyzing miR expression.
Mechanically Controlled Electron Transfer in a Single-Polypeptide Transistor
Authors: Sheu Sheh-Yi , Yang Dah-Yen
Published: January 2017

Proteins are of interest in nano-bio electronic devices due to their versatile structures, exquisite functionality and specificity. However, quantum transport measurements produce conflicting results due to technical limitations whereby it is difficult to precisely determine molecular orientation, the nature of the moieties, the presence of the surroundings and the temperature; in such circumstances a better understanding of the protein electron transfer (ET) pathway and the mechanism remains a considerable challenge. Here, we report an approach to mechanically drive polypeptide flip-flop motion to achieve a logic gate with ON and OFF states during protein ET. We have calculated the transmission spectra of the peptide-based molecular junctions and observed the hallmarks of electrical current and conductance. The results indicate that peptide ET follows an NC asymmetric process and depends on the amino acid chirality and α-helical handedness. Electron transmission decreases as the number of water molecules increases, and the ET efficiency and its pathway depend on the type of water-bridged H-bonds. Our results provide a rational mechanism for peptide ET and new perspectives on polypeptides as potential candidates in logic nano devices.
Topological transformations in proteins: effects of heating and proximity of an interface
Authors: Zhao Yani , Chwastyk Mateusz , Cieplak Marek
Published: January 2017

Using a structure-based coarse-grained model of proteins, we study the mechanism of unfolding of knotted proteins through heating. We find that the dominant mechanisms of unfolding depend on the temperature applied and are generally distinct from those identified for folding at its optimal temperature. In particular, for shallowly knotted proteins, folding usually involves formation of two loops whereas unfolding through high-temperature heating is dominated by untying of single loops. Untying the knots is found to generally precede unfolding unless the protein is deeply knotted and the heating temperature exceeds a threshold value. We then use a phenomenological model of the air-water interface to show that such an interface can untie shallow knots, but it can also make knots in proteins that are natively unknotted.
Determining the migration duration of rice leaf folder (Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Guenée)) moths using a trajectory analytical approach
Authors: Wang Feng-Ying , Yang Fan , Lu Ming-Hong , Luo Shan-Yu , Zhai Bao-Ping , Lim Ka-Sing , McInerney Caitríona E. , Hu Gao
Published: January 2017

Many moths finish their long distance migration after consecutive nights, but little is known about migration duration and distance. This information is key to predicting migration pathways and understanding their evolution. Tethered flight experiments have shown that ovarian development of rice leaf folder (Cnaphalocrocis medinalis [Guenée]) moths was accelerated and synchronized by flight in the first three nights, whereby most females were then matured for mating and reproduction. Thus, it was supposed that this moth might fly three nights to complete its migration. To test this hypothesis, 9 year’s field data for C. medinalis was collected from Nanning, Guangxi Autonomous Region in China. Forward trajectories indicated that most moths arrived at suitable breeding areas after three nights’ flight. Thus, for C. medinalis this migration duration and distance was a reasonable adaptation to the geographic distribution of suitable habitat. The development of female moth ovaries after three consecutive night flights appears to be a well-balanced survival strategy for this species to strike between migration and reproduction benefits. Hence, an optimum solution of migration-reproduction trade-offs in energy allocation evolved in response to the natural selection on migration route and physiological traits.
Reconstruction of Rift Valley fever transmission dynamics in Madagascar: estimation of force of infection from seroprevalence surveys using Bayesian modelling
Authors: Olive Marie-Marie , Grosbois Vladimir , Tran Annelise , Nomenjanahary Lalaina Arivony , Rakotoarinoro Mihaja , Andriamandimby Soa-Fy , Rogier Christophe , Heraud Jean-Michel , Chevalier Veronique
Published: January 2017

The force of infection (FOI) is one of the key parameters describing the dynamics of transmission of vector-borne diseases. Following the occurrence of two major outbreaks of Rift Valley fever (RVF) in Madagascar in 1990–91 and 2008–09, recent studies suggest that the pattern of RVF virus (RVFV) transmission differed among the four main eco-regions (East, Highlands, North-West and South-West). Using Bayesian hierarchical models fitted to serological data from cattle of known age collected during two surveys (2008 and 2014), we estimated RVF FOI and described its variations over time and space in Madagascar. We show that the patterns of RVFV transmission strongly differed among the eco-regions. In the North-West and Highlands regions, these patterns were synchronous with a high intensity in mid-2007/mid-2008. In the East and South-West, the peaks of transmission were later, between mid-2008 and mid-2010. In the warm and humid northwestern eco-region favorable to mosquito populations, RVFV is probably transmitted all year-long at low-level during inter-epizootic period allowing its maintenance and being regularly introduced in the Highlands through ruminant trade. The RVF surveillance of animals of the northwestern region could be used as an early warning indicator of an increased risk of RVF outbreak in Madagascar.
The metastasis suppressor RARRES3 as an endogenous inhibitor of the immunoproteasome expression in breast cancer cells
Authors: Anderson Alison M. , Kalimutho Murugan , Harten Sarah , Nanayakkara Devathri M. , Khanna Kum Kum , Ragan Mark A.
Published: January 2017

In breast cancer metastasis, the dynamic continuum involving pro- and anti-inflammatory regulators can become compromised. Over 600 genes have been implicated in metastasis to bone, lung or brain but how these genes might contribute to perturbation of immune function is poorly understood. To gain insight, we adopted a gene co-expression network approach that draws on the functional parallels between naturally occurring bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) and cancer stem cells (CSCs). Our network analyses indicate a key role for metastasis suppressor RARRES3, including potential to regulate the immunoproteasome (IP), a specialized proteasome induced under inflammatory conditions. Knockdown of RARRES3 in near-normal mammary epithelial and breast cancer cell lines increases overall transcript and protein levels of the IP subunits, but not of their constitutively expressed counterparts. RARRES3 mRNA expression is controlled by interferon regulatory factor IRF1, an inducer of the IP, and is sensitive to depletion of the retinoid-related receptor RORA that regulates various physiological processes including immunity through modulation of gene expression. Collectively, these findings identify a novel regulatory role for RARRES3 as an endogenous inhibitor of IP expression, and contribute to our evolving understanding of potential pathways underlying breast cancer driven immune modulation.
Therapeutic Effects of Human Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Acute Lung Injury Mice
Authors: Zhu Hua , Xiong Yi , Xia Yunqiu , Zhang Rong , Tian Daiyin , Wang Ting , Dai Jihong , Wang Lijia , Yao Hongbing , Jiang Hong , Yang Ke , Liu Enmei , Shi Yujun , Fu Zhou , Gao Li , Zou Lin
Published: January 2017

The incidence and mortality of acute lung injury (ALI)/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are still very high, but stem cells show some promise for its treatment. Here we found that intratracheal administration of human umbilical cord-mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) significantly improved survival and attenuated the lung inflammation in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI mice. We also used the proteins-chip and bioinformatics to analyze interactions between UC-MSCs treatment and immune-response alternations of ALI mice. Then we demonstrated that UC-MSCs could inhibit the inflammatory response of mouse macrophage in ALI mice, as well as enhance its IL-10 expression. We provide data to support the concept that the therapeutic capacity of UC-MSCs for ALI was primarily through paracrine secretion, particularly of prostaglandin-E2 (PGE2). Furthermore, we showed that UC-MSCs might secrete a panel of factors including GM-CSF, IL-6 and IL-13 to ameliorate ALI. Our study suggested that UC-MSCs could protect LPS-induced ALI model by immune regulation and paracrine factors, indicating that UC-MSCs should be a promising strategy for ALI/ARDS.
Controlled generation of high-intensity optical rogue waves by induced modulation instability
Authors: Zhao Saili , Yang Hua , Chen Nengsong , Zhao Chujun
Published: January 2017

Optical rogue waves are featured as the generation of high amplitude events at low probability in optical systems. Moreover, the formation of optical rogue waves is unpredictable and transient in photonic crystal fibers. In this paper, we put forward a method to generate high-intensity optical rogue waves in a more controlled way based on induced modulation instability, which can suppress the noise effect and hence play a leading role in the process of pulse evolution. Our numerical simulations indicate that the generation of rogue wave can be controlled when seeding at the optimal modulation frequency and the intensity of rogue wave can be enhanced with appropriate modulation depth. Further, high-intensity rogue wave can also be ejected in the fiber with a shorter propagation length by regulating the modulation depth. These results all provide a better understanding of optical rogue wave, which can contribute to the generation of tunable long-wavelength spectral components and selective excitation of mid-infrared supercontinuum.
Association of regular physical activity with total and cause-specific mortality among middle-aged and older Chinese: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Zhou Yun , Zhang Runbo , Liu Yuewei , Guo Yanjun , Wang Dongming , He Meian , Yuan Jing , Liang Yuan , Zhang Xiaomin , Wang Youjie , Guo Huan , Wei Sheng , Miao Xiaoping , Yao Ping , Wu Tangchun , Chen Weihong
Published: January 2017

Association between physical activity and mortality has rarely been investigated among the Chinese population. Furthermore, the most appropriate amount of physical activity for longevity benefits remains unclear. We used data from the Dongfeng-Tongji cohort, including 24,606 middle-aged and older retired adults in 2008 and followed to 2013, to quantify linear and non-linear dose-response relationships between regular physical activity and mortality risks by Cox proportional hazards model. Compared with participants who did not engage in regular physical activity, those performing regular physical activity had significantly 46%, 56%, and 49% decreased risks of mortality from all causes, circulatory, and respiratory diseases, respectively. Each one-SD increase in regular physical activity was associated with 32% decrease of respiratory disease mortality. There were significant nonlinear dose-response associations between regular physical activity and mortality from all causes and circulatory diseases. Mortality risks decreased monotonically with increased regular physical activity amount, and appeared to reach a threshold at around 100 MET-hours/week. More mortality benefits were found among non-smokers than that among current and former smokers. Our results suggest that middle-aged and older Chinese adults can achieve mortality benefits from regular physical activity at the WHO recommended minimum, and the benefit threshold appears at approximately 100 MET hours/week.
Layered Ni(OH)2-Co(OH)2 films prepared by electrodeposition as charge storage electrodes for hybrid supercapacitors
Authors: Nguyen Tuyen , Boudard Michel , Carmezim M. João , Montemor M. Fátima
Published: January 2017

Consecutive layers of Ni(OH)2 and Co(OH)2 were electrodeposited on stainless steel current collectors for preparing charge storage electrodes of high specific capacity with potential application in hybrid supercapacitors. Different electrodes were prepared consisting on films of Ni(OH)2, Co(OH)2, Ni1/2Co1/2(OH)2 and layered films of Ni(OH)2 on Co(OH)2 and Co(OH)2 on Ni(OH)2 to highlight the advantages of the new architecture. The microscopy studies revealed the formation of nanosheets in the Co(OH)2 films and of particles agglomerates in the Ni(OH)2 films. Important morphological changes were observed in the double hydroxides films and layered films. Film growth by electrodeposition was governed by instantaneous nucleation mechanism. The new architecture composed of Ni(OH)2 on Co(OH)2 displayed a redox response characterized by the presence of two peaks in the cyclic voltammograms, arising from redox reactions of the metallic species present in the layered film. These electrodes revealed a specific capacity of 762 C g−1 at the specific current of 1 A g−1. The hybrid cell using Ni(OH)2 on Co(OH)2 as positive electrode and carbon nanofoam paper as negative electrode display specific energies of 101.3 W h g−1 and 37.8 W h g−1 at specific powers of 0.2 W g−1 and 2.45 W g−1, respectively.
Progressive induction of hepatocyte progenitor cells in chronically injured liver
Authors: Tanimizu Naoki , Ichinohe Norihisa , Yamamoto Masahiro , Akiyama Haruhiko , Nishikawa Yuji , Mitaka Toshihiro
Published: January 2017

Differentiated epithelial cells show substantial lineage plasticity upon severe tissue injuries. In chronically injured mouse livers, part of hepatocytes become Sry-HMG box containing 9 (Sox9) (+) epithelial cell adhesion molecule (−) hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 α (+) biphenotypic hepatocytes. However, it is not clear whether all Sox9+ hepatocytes uniformly possess cellular properties as hepatocyte progenitors. Here, we examined the microarray data comparing Sox9+ hepatocytes with mature hepatocytes and identified CD24 as a novel marker for biphenotypic hepatocytes. Immunohistochemical analyses showed that part of Sox9+ hepatocytes near expanded ductular structures expressed CD24 in the liver injured by 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydro-collidine (DDC) diet and by bile duct ligation. Indeed, Sox9+ hepatocytes could be separated into CD24− and CD24+ cells by fluorescence activated cell sorting. The ratio of CD24+ cells against CD24− ones in Sox9+ hepatocytes gradually increased while DDC-injury progressed and colony-forming capability mostly attributed to CD24+ cells. Although hepatocyte markers were remarkably downregulated in of Sox9+ CD24+ hepatocytes, they re-differentiated into mature hepatocytes in vitro and in vivo. Our current results demonstrate that the emergence of biphenotypic hepatocytes is a sequential event including the transition from CD24− and CD24+ status, which may be a crucial step for hepatocytes to acquire progenitor properties.
Prostate Cancer Mortality-To-Incidence Ratios Are Associated with Cancer Care Disparities in 35 Countries
Authors: Chen Sung-Lang , Wang Shao-Chuan , Ho Cheng-Ju , Kao Yu-Lin , Hsieh Tzuo-Yi , Chen Wen-Jung , Chen Chih-Jung , Wu Pei-Ru , Ko Jiunn-Liang , Lee Huei , Sung Wen-Wei
Published: January 2017

The variation in mortality-to-incidence ratios (MIRs) among countries reflects the clinical outcomes and the available interventions for colorectal cancer treatments. The association between MIR of prostate cancer and cancer care disparities among countries is an interesting issue that is rarely investigated. For the present study, cancer incidence and mortality rates were obtained from the GLOBOCAN 2012 database. The rankings and total expenditures on health of various countries were obtained from the World Health Organization (WHO). The association between variables was analyzed by linear regression analyses. In this study, we estimated the role of MIRs from 35 countries that had a prostate cancer incidence greater than 5,000 cases per year. As expected, high prostate cancer incidence and mortality rates were observed in more developed regions, such as Europe and the Americas. However, the MIRs were 2.5 times higher in the less developed regions. Regarding the association between MIR and cancer care disparities, countries with good WHO ranking and high total expenditures on health/gross domestic product (GDP) were significant correlated with low MIR. The MIR variation for prostate cancer correlates with cancer care disparities among countries further support the role of cancer care disparities in clinical outcome.
Serum uric acid levels are associated with obesity but not cardio-cerebrovascular events in Chinese inpatients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Chen Ming-Yun , Zhao Cui-Chun , Li Ting-Ting , Zhu Yue , Yu Tian-Pei , Bao Yu-Qian , Li Lian-Xi , Jia Wei-Ping
Published: January 2017

We aim to explore the associations between serum uric acid (SUA) and obesity and cardio-cerebrovascular events (CCEs) in Chinese inpatients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). 2 962 inpatients with T2DM were stratified into quartile based on SUA concentrations. There were significant increases in the prevalence of both obesity (32.6%, 41.9%, 50.1%, and 62.8%, respectively, p < 0.001 for trend) and severe obesity (0.4%, 0.6%, 0.8%, and 1.3%, respectively, p < 0.001 for trend) across the SUA quartiles. A fully adjusted multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that SUA quartiles were independently associated with the presence of obesity (p < 0.001). The prevalence of CCEs was significantly higher in the obese diabetics than in the nonobese diabetics (16.8% vs. 13.2%, p = 0.027). After controlling for multiple confounding factors, BMI levels were also significantly correlated with the presence of CCEs (p = 0.020). However, there was no significant association of SUA quartiles/SUA levels with the presence of CCEs in T2DM. This study suggested that SUA levels were independently associated with obesity but not with CCEs in patients with T2DM. In selected populations such as subjects with T2DM, the role of uric acid in cardiovascular complications might be attributable to other cardiovascular risk factors, such as obesity.
Predictive Value of Serum IFN-γ inducible Protein-10 and IFN-γ/IL-4 Ratio for Liver Fibrosis Progression in CHB Patients
Authors: Wang Yadong , Yu Weiyan , Shen Chuan , Wang Wei , Zhang Li , Liu Fang , Sun Hui , Zhao Yajuan , Che Honghao , Zhao Caiyan
Published: January 2017

Noninvasive serum markers for assessment of liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients have not been well-studied. The present study was to evaluate the predictive value of serum interferon gamma-inducible protein-10 (IP-10/CXCL10) and the interferon (IFN)-γ/interleukin (IL)-4 ratio for liver fibrosis progression in CHB patients. A total of 180 CHB patients were categorized into four groups: no fibrosis, mild fibrosis, moderate fibrosis, and severe fibrosis. Serum and intrahepatic levels of IP-10, IFN-γ, and IL-4 were examined, from which the IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio was calculated. We found that the serum IP-10 levels were positively correlated with the severity of liver fibrosis, whereas the IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio was negatively associated with the progression of hepatic fibrosis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the serum IP-10 was an independent predictor for significant fibrosis. For predicting significant fibrosis, the IP-10 cut-off value of 300 ng/mL had a sensitivity of 92.7% and a specificity of 68.6%. When the IP-10 level was combined with the IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio, the specificity and positive predictive value were 93.8% and 94.6%, respectively; thus, the discriminatory ability was much improved. In conclusion, the serum IP-10 level and the IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio have great potential to predict significant fibrosis among CHB patients.
Tris(S,S-dioxide)-trithiasumanene: strong fluorescence and cocrystal with 1,2,6,7,10,11-hexabutoxytriphenylene
Authors: Hou Xueqing , Zhu Yongtao , Qin Yunke , Chen Lichuan , Li Xuexiang , Zhang Hao-Li , Xu Wei , Zhu Daoben , Shao Xiangfeng
Published: January 2017

Trithiasumanene was regioselectively transformed into tris(S,S-dioxide)-trithiasumanene, which displays strong fluorescence and forms a chiral cocrystal with HBT, showing a yellow emission.
Comment on “Magnetic-field-enabled resolution enhancement in super-resolution imaging” by M. Zhang et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2015, 17, 6722–6727
Authors: Bergmann Stephan , Mönkemöller Viola , Huser Thomas
Published: January 2017

Spectral fluorimetry demonstrates that common organic fluorophores such as Alexa 647 exhibit no magnetic field enhanced fluorescence in the absence/presence of a strong magnet.
Tris-bipyridine based dinuclear ruthenium(ii)–osmium(iii) complex dyads grafted onto TiO2 nanoparticles for mimicking the artificial photosynthetic Z-scheme
Authors: Favereau Ludovic , Makhal Abhinandan , Provost David , Pellegrin Yann , Blart Errol , Göransson Erik , Hammarström Leif , Odobel Fabrice
Published: January 2017

A Ru(ii)–Os(iii) dyad was grafted on TiO2 to achieve Z-scheme charge separation, but photoinduced electron transfer was shown to be a minor reaction pathway in this system.
Shape and crystallographic orientation of nanodiamonds for quantum sensing
Authors: Ong S. Y. , Chipaux M. , Nagl A. , Schirhagl R.
Published: January 2017

Fluorescent nanodiamonds are revealed to have flake-like geometries and a preferred orientation in (110) direction. The consequences for their magnetic sensing purposes and performance in experiments for physics and biology are discussed in this paper.
The dynamic binding of cholesterol to the multiple sites of C99: as revealed by coarse-grained and all-atom simulations
Authors: Li Cheng-Dong , Xu Qin , Gu Ruo-Xu , Qu Jing , Wei Dong-Qing
Published: January 2017

The multi-site cholesterol binding model of C99.
Metal ion mediated electron transfer at dye–semiconductor interfaces
Authors: Wang Jamie C. , Violette Kyle , Ogunsolu Omotola O. , Hanson Kenneth
Published: January 2017

Metal linking ions in self-assembled bilayers have a strong influence on the electron transfer events at dye–semiconductor interfaces.
Electronic structure of NixTiSe2 (0.05 ≤ x ≤ 0.46) compounds with ordered and disordered Ni
Authors: Shkvarin A. S. , Yarmoshenko Yu. M. , Merentsov A. I. , Zhukov Yu. M. , Titov A. A. , Shkvarina E. G. , Titov A. N.
Published: January 2017

The electronic structure of NixTiSe2 intercalation compounds with disordered and ordered Ni atoms is studied using photoelectron, resonant photoelectron and X-ray absorption spectroscopy, theoretical calculations of the X-ray spectra and density of electronic states.
An insight into the communication between β-olefin/phenyl olefin-mediated acceptors and porphyrin π-system: a way to establish porphyrin based chemodosimeters and chemosensors
Authors: Chahal Mandeep K. , Sankar Muniappan , Butcher Ray J.
Published: January 2017

Porphyrins bearing electron acceptors attached to β-carbon through olefin or phenyl–olefin bridges act as chemodosimeters for CN− as well as chemosensors for F−, CN− and OAc− ions depends on acceptor strength and position.
Promoting the oxygen reduction reaction with gold at step/edge sites of Ni@AuPt core–shell nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Hao , An Wei
Published: January 2017

Presumably inert Au atoms localized at edge sites of Ni@AuPt core–shell nanoparticles effectively promote the electrocatalytic activity for oxygen reduction reaction.
Palladium(ii) and palladium(ii)–silver(i) complexes with N-heterocyclic carbene and zwitterionic thiolate mixed ligands: synthesis, structural characterization and catalytic properties
Authors: Wang Yu-Ting , Gao Bin-Bin , Wang Fan , Liu Shi-Yuan , Yu Hong , Zhang Wen-Hua , Lang Jian-Ping
Published: January 2017

A combination of Pd(ii), an N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC), and a thiolate (Tab) yields several Pd–NHC–Tab complexes and an octanuclear Pd4Ag4–NHC–Tab cluster.
N2O-Free single-pot conversion of cyclohexane to adipic acid catalysed by an iron(ii) scorpionate complex
Authors: Ribeiro A. P. C. , Martins L. M. D. R. S. , Pombeiro A. J. L.
Published: January 2017

Iron catalysed efficient single-pot adipic acid synthesis by cyclohexane oxidation with ozone in a solvent-, heating-, radiation- and N2O-free protocol.