bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Syk-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of 3BP2 is required for optimal FcRγ-mediated phagocytosis and chemokine expression in U937 cells
Authors: Chihara Kazuyasu , Kato Yuji , Yoshiki Hatsumi , Takeuchi Kenji , Fujieda Shigeharu , Sada Kiyonao
Published: September 2017

The adaptor protein c-Abl SH3 domain binding protein-2 (3BP2) is tyrosine phosphorylated by Syk in response to cross-linking of antigen receptors, which in turn activates various immune responses. Recently, a study using the mouse model of cherubism, a dominant inherited disorder caused by mutations in the gene encoding 3BP2, showed that 3BP2 is involved in the regulation of phagocytosis mediated by Fc receptor for IgG (FcγR) in macrophages. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying 3BP2-mediated regulation of phagocytosis and the physiological relevance of 3BP2 tyrosine phosphorylation remains elusive. In this study, we established various gene knockout U937 cell lines using the CRISPR/Cas9 system and found that 3BP2 is rapidly tyrosine phosphorylated by Syk in response to cross-linking of FcγRI. Depletion of 3BP2 caused significant reduction in the Fc receptor γ chain (FcRγ)-mediated phagocytosis in addition to the FcγRI-mediated induction of chemokine mRNA for IL-8, CCL3L3 and CCL4L2. Syk-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of 3BP2 was required for overcoming these defects. Finally, we found that the PH and SH2 domains play important roles on FcγRI-mediated tyrosine phosphorylation of 3BP2 in HL-60 cells. Taken together, these results indicate that Syk-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of 3BP2 is required for optimal FcRγ-mediated phagocytosis and chemokine expression.
Evasion of regulatory phosphorylation by an alternatively spliced isoform of Musashi2
Authors: MacNicol Melanie C. , Cragle Chad E. , McDaniel F. Kennedy , Hardy Linda L. , Wang Yan , Arumugam Karthik , Rahmatallah Yasir , Glazko Galina V. , Wilczynska Ania , Childs Gwen V. , Zhou Daohong , MacNicol Angus M.
Published: September 2017

The Musashi family of RNA binding proteins act to promote stem cell self-renewal and oppose cell differentiation predominantly through translational repression of mRNAs encoding pro-differentiation factors and inhibitors of cell cycle progression. During tissue development and repair however, Musashi repressor function must be dynamically regulated to allow cell cycle exit and differentiation. The mechanism by which Musashi repressor function is attenuated has not been fully established. Our prior work indicated that the Musashi1 isoform undergoes site-specific regulatory phosphorylation. Here, we demonstrate that the canonical Musashi2 isoform is subject to similar regulated site-specific phosphorylation, converting Musashi2 from a repressor to an activator of target mRNA translation. We have also characterized a novel alternatively spliced, truncated isoform of human Musashi2 (variant 2) that lacks the sites of regulatory phosphorylation and fails to promote translation of target mRNAs. Consistent with a role in opposing cell cycle exit and differentiation, upregulation of Musashi2 variant 2 was observed in a number of cancers and overexpression of the Musashi2 variant 2 isoform promoted cell transformation. These findings indicate that alternately spliced isoforms of the Musashi protein family possess distinct functional and regulatory properties and suggest that differential expression of Musashi isoforms may influence cell fate decisions.
Peripheral human CD4+CD8+ T lymphocytes exhibit a memory phenotype and enhanced responses to IL-2, IL-7 and IL-15
Authors: Clénet Marie-Laure , Gagnon François , Moratalla Ana Carmena , Viel Emilie C. , Arbour Nathalie
Published: September 2017

CD4+CD8+T lymphocytes account for 1–2% of circulating human T lymphocytes, but their frequency is augmented in several diseases. The phenotypic and functional properties of these T lymphocytes are still ill-defined. We performed anex vivocharacterization of CD4+CD8+T lymphocytes from the blood of healthy individuals. We observed that CD4+CD8+T lymphocytes exhibit several characteristics associated with memory T lymphocytes including the expression of chemokine receptors (e.g. CCR7, CXCR3, CCR6) and activation markers (e.g. CD57, CD95). Moreover, we showed that a greater proportion of CD4+CD8+T lymphocytes have an enhanced capacity to produce cytokines (IFNγ, TNFα, IL-2, IL-4, IL-17A) and lytic enzymes (perforin, granzyme B) compared to CD4+and/or CD8+T lymphocytes. Finally, we assessed the impact of three key cytokines in T cell biology on these cells. We observed that IL-2, IL-7 and IL-15 triggered STAT5 phosphorylation in a greater proportion of CD4+CD8+T lymphocytes compared to CD4 and CD8 counterparts. We demonstrate that CD4+CD8+T lymphocytes from healthy donors exhibit a phenotypic profile associated with memory T lymphocytes, an increased capacity to produce cytokines and lytic enzymes, and a higher proportion of cells responding to key cytokines implicated in T cell survival, homeostasis and activation.
The Generalization of Auditory Accommodation to Altered Spectral Cues
Authors: Watson Christopher J. G. , Carlile Simon , Kelly Heather , Balachandar Kapilesh
Published: September 2017

The capacity of healthy adult listeners to accommodate to altered spectral cues to the source locations of broadband sounds has now been well documented. In recent years we have demonstrated that the degree and speed of accommodation are improved by using an integrated sensory-motor training protocol under anechoic conditions. Here we demonstrate that the learning which underpins the localization performance gains during the accommodation process using anechoic broadband training stimuli generalize to environmentally relevant scenarios. As previously, alterations to monaural spectral cues were produced by fitting participants with custom-made outer ear molds, worn during waking hours. Following acute degradations in localization performance, participants then underwent daily sensory-motor training to improve localization accuracy using broadband noise stimuli over ten days. Participants not only demonstrated post-training improvements in localization accuracy for broadband noises presented in the same set of positions used during training, but also for stimuli presented in untrained locations, for monosyllabic speech sounds, and for stimuli presented in reverberant conditions. These findings shed further light on the neuroplastic capacity of healthy listeners, and represent the next step in the development of training programs for users of assistive listening devices which degrade localization acuity by distorting or bypassing monaural cues.
Predictive and prognostic value of intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) MR imaging in patients with advanced cervical cancers undergoing concurrent chemo-radiotherapy
Authors: Zhu Li , Wang Huanhuan , Zhu Lijing , Meng Jie , Xu Yan , Liu Baorui , Chen Weibo , He Jian , Zhou Zhengyang , Yang Xiaofeng
Published: September 2017

By using the intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) model, the diffusion-related coefficient (D) and the perfusion-related parameter (f) can be obtained simultaneously. Here, we explored the application of IVIM MR imaging in predicting long-term prognosis in patients with advanced cervical cancers treated with concurrent chemo-radiotherapy (CCRT). In this study, pelvic MR examinations including an IVIM sequence were performed on 30 women with advanced cervical cancers at three time points (within 2 weeks before, as well as 2 and 4 weeks after, the initiation of CCRT). The performance of tumour size and IVIM-derived parameters in predicting long-term prognosis was evaluated. After a median follow-up of 24 months (range, 10∼34 months), 25/30 (83.33%) patients were alive, and 21/30 (70.00%) remained free of disease. A shrinkage rate of maximum diameter (time point 1 vs. 3) ≥ 58.31% was useful in predicting a good long-term prognosis. The IVIM-derived apparent diffusion coefficient (ADCIVIM) value at time point 2 and the ADCIVIM and f values at time point 3 also performed well in predicting a good prognosis, with AUC of 0.767, 0.857 and 0.820, respectively. IVIM MR imaging has great potential in predicting long-term prognosis in patients with advanced cervical cancers treated with CCRT.
Kleptoplasty does not promote major shifts in the lipidome of macroalgal chloroplasts sequestered by the sacoglossan sea slug Elysia viridis
Authors: Rey Felisa , Costa Elisabete da , Campos Ana M. , Cartaxana Paulo , Maciel Elisabete , Domingues Pedro , Domingues M. Rosário M. , Calado Ricardo , Cruz Sónia
Published: September 2017

Sacoglossan sea slugs, also known as crawling leaves due to their photosynthetic activity, are highly selective feeders that incorporate chloroplasts from specific macroalgae. These “stolen” plastids - kleptoplasts - are kept functional inside animal cells and likely provide an alternative source of energy to their host. The mechanisms supporting the retention and functionality of kleptoplasts remain unknown. A lipidomic mass spectrometry-based analysis was performed to study kleptoplasty of the sacoglossan sea slug Elysia viridis fed with Codium tomentosum. Total lipid extract of both organisms was fractionated. The fraction rich in glycolipids, exclusive lipids from chloroplasts, and the fraction rich in betaine lipids, characteristic of algae, were analysed using hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HILIC-LC-MS). This approach allowed the identification of 81 molecular species, namely galactolipids (8 in both organisms), sulfolipids (17 in C. tomentosum and 13 in E. viridis) and betaine lipids (51 in C. tomentosum and 41 in E. viridis). These lipid classes presented similar lipidomic profiles in C. tomentosum and E. viridis, indicating that the necessary mechanisms to perform photosynthesis are preserved during the process of endosymbiosis. The present study shows that there are no major shifts in the lipidome of C. tomentosum chloroplasts sequestered by E. viridis.
Influenza D in Italy: towards a better understanding of an emerging viral infection in swine
Authors: Foni Emanuela , Chiapponi Chiara , Baioni Laura , Zanni Irene , Merenda Marianna , Rosignoli Carlo , Kyriakis Constantinos S. , Luini Mario Vittorio , Mandola Maria Lucia , Bolzoni Luca , Nigrelli Arrigo Daniele , Faccini Silvia
Published: September 2017

Influenza D virus (IDV), a new member of the Orthomyxoviridae family, was first reported in 2011 in swine in Oklahoma, and consequently found in cattle across North America and Eurasia. To investigate the circulation of IDV among pigs in Italy, in the period between June 2015 and May 2016, biomolecular and virological tests were performed on 845 clinical samples collected from 448 pig farms affected by respiratory distress located in the Po Valley. Serological tests were conducted on 3698 swine sera, including archive sera collected in 2009, as well as samples collected in 2015 from the same region. Viral genome was detected in 21 (2.3%) samples from 9 herds (2%), while virus was successfully isolated from 3 samples. Genetic analysis highlighted that Italian swine IDVs are closely related to the D/swine/Oklahoma/1334/2011 cluster. Sera collected in 2015 showed a high prevalence of IDV antibody titers (11.7%), while archive sera from 2009 showed statistically significant lower positivity rates (0.6%). Our results indicate an increasing epidemiological relevance of the pathogen and the need for in-depth investigations towards understanding its pathogenesis, epidemiology and possible zoonotic potential of this emerging virus.
Vimentin knockout results in increased expression of sub-endothelial basement membrane components and carotid stiffness in mice
Authors: Langlois Benoit , Belozertseva Ekaterina , Parlakian Ara , Bourhim Mustapha , Gao-Li Jacqueline , Blanc Jocelyne , Tian Lei , Coletti Dario , Labat Carlos , Ramdame-Cherif Zhor , Challande Pascal , Regnault Véronique , Lacolley Patrick , Li Zhenlin
Published: September 2017

Intermediate filaments are involved in stress-related cell mechanical properties and in plasticity via the regulation of focal adhesions (FAs) and the actomyosin network. We investigated whether vimentin regulates endothelial cells (ECs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and thereby influences vasomotor tone and arterial stiffness. Vimentin knockout mice (Vim−/−) exhibited increased expression of laminin, fibronectin, perlecan, collagen IV and VE-cadherin as well as von Willebrand factor deposition in the subendothelial basement membrane. Smooth muscle (SM) myosin heavy chain, α-SM actin and smoothelin were decreased in Vim−/− mice. Electron microscopy revealed a denser endothelial basement membrane and increased SM cell-matrix interactions. Integrin αv, talin and vinculin present in FAs were increased in Vim−/− mice. Phosphorylated FA kinase and its targets Src and ERK1/2 were elevated in Vim−/− mice. Knockout of vimentin, but not of synemin, resulted in increased carotid stiffness and contractility and endothelial dysfunction, independently of blood pressure and the collagen/elastin ratio. The increase in arterial stiffness in Vim−/− mice likely involves vasomotor tone and endothelial basement membrane organization changes. At the tissue level, the results show the implication of FAs both in ECs and vascular SMCs in the role of vimentin in arterial stiffening.
Synthesis of ammonia using sodium melt
Authors: Kawamura Fumio , Taniguchi Takashi
Published: September 2017

Research into inexpensive ammonia synthesis has increased recently because ammonia can be used as a hydrogen carrier or as a next generation fuel which does not emit CO2. Furthermore, improving the efficiency of ammonia synthesis is necessary, because current synthesis methods emit significant amounts of CO2. To achieve these goals, catalysts that can effectively reduce the synthesis temperature and pressure, relative to those required in the Haber-Bosch process, are required. Although several catalysts and novel ammonia synthesis methods have been developed previously, expensive materials or low conversion efficiency have prevented the displacement of the Haber-Bosch process. Herein, we present novel ammonia synthesis route using a Na-melt as a catalyst. Using this route, ammonia can be synthesized using a simple process in which H2-N2 mixed gas passes through the Na-melt at 500–590 °C under atmospheric pressure. Nitrogen molecules dissociated by reaction with sodium then react with hydrogen, resulting in the formation of ammonia. Because of the high catalytic efficiency and low-cost of this molten-Na catalyst, it provides new opportunities for the inexpensive synthesis of ammonia and the utilization of ammonia as an energy carrier and next generation fuel.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: The melanocortin signaling cAMP axis accelerates repair and reduces mutagenesis of platinum-induced DNA damage
Authors: Jarrett Stuart G. , Carter Katharine M. , Shelton Brent J. , D’Orazio John A.
Published: September 2017

Using primary melanocytes and HEK293 cells, we found that cAMP signaling accelerates repair of bi- and mono-functional platinum-induced DNA damage. Elevating cAMP signaling either by the agonistic MC1R ligand melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH) or by pharmacologic cAMP induction by forskolin enhanced clearance of intrastrand cisplatin-adducts in melanocytes or MC1R-transfected HEK293 cells. MC1R antagonists human beta-defensin 3 and agouti signaling protein blocked MSH- but not forskolin-mediated enhancement of platinum-induced DNA damage. cAMP-enhanced repair of cisplatin-induced DNA damage was dependent on PKA-mediated phosphorylation of ATR on S435 which promoted ATR’s interaction with the key NER factor xeroderma pigmentosum A (XPA) and facilitated recruitment of an XPA-ATR-pS435 complex to sites of cisplatin DNA damage. Moreover, we developed an oligonucleotide retrieval immunoprecipitation (ORiP) assay using a novel platinated-DNA substrate to establish kinetics of ATR-pS435 and XPA’s associations with cisplatin-damaged DNA. Expression of a non-phosphorylatable ATR-S435A construct or deletion of A kinase-anchoring protein 12 (AKAP12) impeded platinum adduct clearance and prevented cAMP-mediated enhancement of ATR and XPA’s associations with cisplatin-damaged DNA, indicating that ATR phosphorylation at S435 is necessary for cAMP-enhanced repair of platinum-induced damage and protection against cisplatin-induced mutagenesis. These data implicate cAMP signaling as a critical regulator of genomic stability against platinum-induced mutagenesis.
Ultrastructural Characterization of the Glomerulopathy in Alport Mice by Helium Ion Scanning Microscopy (HIM)
Authors: Tsuji Kenji , Suleiman Hani , Miner Jeffrey H. , Daley James M. , Capen Diane E. , Păunescu Teodor G. , Lu Hua A. Jenny
Published: September 2017

The glomerulus exercises its filtration barrier function by establishing a complex filtration apparatus consisting of podocyte foot processes, glomerular basement membrane and endothelial cells. Disruption of any component of the glomerular filtration barrier leads to glomerular dysfunction, frequently manifested as proteinuria. Ultrastructural studies of the glomerulus by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and conventional scanning electron microscopy (SEM) have been routinely used to identify and classify various glomerular diseases. Here we report the application of newly developed helium ion scanning microscopy (HIM) to examine the glomerulopathy in a Col4a3 mutant/Alport syndrome mouse model. Our study revealed unprecedented details of glomerular abnormalities in Col4a3 mutants including distorted podocyte cell bodies and disorganized primary processes. Strikingly, we observed abundant filamentous microprojections arising from podocyte cell bodies and processes, and presence of unique bridging processes that connect the primary processes and foot processes in Alport mice. Furthermore, we detected an altered glomerular endothelium with disrupted sub-endothelial integrity. More importantly, we were able to clearly visualize the complex, three-dimensional podocyte and endothelial interface by HIM. Our study demonstrates that HIM provides nanometer resolution to uncover and rediscover critical ultrastructural characteristics of the glomerulopathy in Col4a3 mutant mice.
De novo transcriptome of the cosmopolitan dinoflagellate Amphidinium carterae to identify enzymes with biotechnological potential
Authors: Lauritano Chiara , De Luca Daniele , Ferrarini Alberto , Avanzato Carla , Minio Andrea , Esposito Francesco , Ianora Adrianna
Published: September 2017

Dinoflagellates are phytoplanktonic organisms found in both freshwater and marine habitats. They are often studied because related to harmful algal blooms but they are also known to produce bioactive compounds for the treatment of human pathologies. The aim of this study was to sequence the full transcriptome of the dinoflagellateAmphidinium carteraein both nitrogen-starved and -replete culturing conditions (1) to evaluate the response to nitrogen starvation at the transcriptional level, (2) to look for possible polyketide synthases (PKSs) in the studied clone (genes that may be involved in the synthesis of bioactive compounds), (3) if present, to evaluate if nutrient starvation can influence PKS expression, (4) to look for other possible enzymes of biotechnological interest and (5) to test strain cytotoxicity on human cell lines. Results showed an increase in nitrogen metabolism and stress response in nitrogen-starved cells and confirmed the presence of a type I β-ketosynthase. In addition, L-asparaginase (used for the treatment of Leukemia and for acrylamide reduction in food industries) and cellulase (useful for biofuel production and other industrial applications) have been identified for the first time in this species, giving new insights into possible biotechnological applications of dinoflagellates.
Association between cognitive deficits and suicidal ideation in patients with major depressive disorder
Authors: Pu Shenghong , Setoyama Shiori , Noda Takamasa
Published: September 2017

The role of cognitive function in suicidal ideation in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) has not been adequately explored. This research sought to measure the relationship between suicidal ideation and cognitive function. Therefore, in this study, the association between cognitive function and suicidal ideation in patients with MDD was assessed. Cognitive function was evaluated in 233 patients with MDD using the Japanese version of the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (BACS). Suicidal ideation was assessed using item 3 of the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. Approximately 59.2% of the patients (138/233) expressed suicidal ideation. Among the BACS subtests, only the executive function scores were significantly lower in patients with MDD with than in those without (p < 0.005). In addition, the executive function, motor speed function, and composite scores correlated negatively with the severity of suicidal ideation in these patients. These results suggest that executive function, motor speed function, and global neuropsychological function are associated with suicidal ideation in patients with MDD and that the BACS neuropsychological battery is an efficient instrument for monitoring these characteristics. Moreover, specific BACS scores can potentially serve as cognitive biomarkers of suicide risk in patients with MDD.
Micro and nano hierachical structures of BiOI/activated carbon for efficient visible-light-photocatalytic reactions
Authors: Hou Jianhua , Jiang Kun , Shen Ming , Wei Rui , Wu Xiaoge , Idrees Faryal , Cao Chuanbao
Published: September 2017

Constructing the heterojunctions or designing the novel nanostructures are thought as effective methods to improve photocatalytic activities of semiconductors. Herein, a one-step green route was developed to fabricate bismuth oxyiodide/activated carbon (BiOI/C) composite. The prepared BiOI/C exhibit obviously red shifts and increased absorption range of visible light. The presence of Bi-C bonds confirms the heterojunction, on account of which the BiOI nanosheets tightly grew on the surface of carbon and subsequently provided the hierarchical structure, sufficient interfacial interaction and high specific surface area. Significantly, the sufficient interracial interaction is beneficial to the detachment of electrons (e−)-holes (h+) pairs and the Bi-C bonds work like a bridge to rapidly transmit the e− from BiOI to carbon. What’s more, the hierarchical structure of BiOI/C efficiently shortened the diffusion pathways of pollutants and the high SBET provided more exposed reaction sites. Benefiting from multiple synergistic effects, the as-prepared BiOI/C exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activities in degrading Rhodamine B (RhB) solution under visible light irradiation. The degradation rate of optimized BiOI/C reaches up to 95% in 120 min, and the efficiency is 3.36 times higher than pure BiOI. This study provides a promising strategy that activated carbon can be utilized in highly-efficiency photocatalysts.
The existing states of potassium species in K-doped Co3O4 catalysts and their influence on the activities for NO and soot oxidation
Authors: Shang Zhou , Sun Min , Che Xiang , Wang Wei , Wang Li , Cao Xiaoming , Zhan Wangcheng , Guo Yanglong , Guo Yun , Lu Guanzhong
Published: September 2017

The fresh and washed K-doped Co3O4 catalysts were compared with pure Co3O4 in order to investigate the existing states of K species and their influence on the activities for NO and soot oxidation.
Impact ofin vitrodigestion phases on the stability and bioaccessibility of carotenoids and their esters in mandarin pulps
Authors: Petry Fabiane Cristina , Mercadante Adriana Zerlotti
Published: September 2017

The composition of carotenoids (carotenes and free and acylated xanthophylls) and their bioaccessibilities were determined for the first time in pulps of mandarins cultivated in Brazil.
A multi-environment nanocalorimeter with electrical contacts for use in a scanning electron microscope
Authors: Yi Feng , Stevanovic Ana , Osborn William A. , Kolmakov A. , LaVan David A.
Published: September 2017

A multi-environment SEM nanocalorimeter showing a SnO2 nanowire under vacuum and in air along with EBIC measurements at 1 atmosphere.
Tetrasubstituted cyclopentadienones as suitable enantiopure ligands with axial chirality
Authors: Prati L. , Mancinelli M. , Ciogli A. , Mazzanti A.
Published: September 2017

A series of thermally stable atropisomeric phencyclones has been successfully synthesized as ligands in new ruthenium-based enantioselective hydrogenation catalysts.
Incorporation of [2H1]-(1R,2R)- and [2H1]-(1S,2R)-glycerols into the antibiotic nucleocidin in Streptomyces calvus
Authors: Feng Xuan , Al Maharik Nawaf , Bartholomé Axel , Janso Jeffrey E. , Reilly Usa , O'Hagan David
Published: September 2017

Both pro-R hydroxylmethyl hydrogens of glycerol are incorporated into nucleocidin in Streptomyces calvus.
Catalytic asymmetric C2-nucleophilic substitutions of C3-substituted indoles with ortho-hydroxybenzyl alcohols
Authors: Wu Jia-Le , Wang Jing-Yi , Wu Ping , Mei Guang-Jian , Shi Feng
Published: September 2017

Catalytic asymmetric C2-nucleophilic substitutions of C3-substituted indoles such as tryptophols or tryptamines with ortho-hydroxybenzyl alcohols have been established, leading to the generation of triaryl methane products in generally high yields and excellent enantioselectivities.
Soot oxidation performance with a HZSM-5 supported Ag nanoparticles catalyst and the characterization of Ag species
Authors: Ruan Hongcheng , Nishibori Maiko , Uchiyama Tomoki , Ninomiya Kakeru , Kamitani Kazutaka , Kato Kazuo , Konishi Yuko , Haensch Alexander , Barsan Nicolae , Weimar Udo , Shimanoe Kengo
Published: September 2017

A HZSM-5 supported Ag nanoparticles catalyst, which has a Si/Al ratio of 1500, is synthesized by a simple impregnation method for soot oxidation.
CuO/Cu2O nanowire arrays grafted by reduced graphene oxide: synthesis, characterization, and application in photocatalytic reduction of CO2
Authors: Zhang Qianyu , Huang Lihua , Kang Shifei , Yin Chaochuang , Ma Zhen , Cui Lifeng , Wang Yangang
Published: September 2017

Schematic illustration of plausible mechanism for the photoreduction of CO2 with H2O over the CuO/Cu2O NWAs@rGO catalysts.
Low resistance bicomponent spunbond materials for fresh air filtration with ultra-high dust holding capacity
Authors: Liu Jinxin , Zhang Xing , Zhang Haifeng , Zheng Lei , Huang Chen , Wu Haibo , Wang Rongwu , Jin Xiangyu
Published: September 2017

Three-dimensional fluffy air filtration materials with low resistance and ultra-high dust holding capacity were fabricated by a bicomponent spunbond technique.
Fabrication of rGO/g-C3N4 composites via electrostatic assembly towards charge separation control
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Jia Changchao , Xue Yuehua , Yang Ping
Published: September 2017

rGO/g-C3N4 nanoheterostructures created by an electrostatic assembly process from carboxyl and amino groups via π–π stacking interaction revealed good conduction and enhanced photocatalysis properties.
Synthesis and characterization of a ZnMn2O4nanostructure as a chemical nanosensor: a facile and new approach for colorimetric determination of omeprazole and lansoprazole drugs
Authors: Nassar Mostafa Y. , El-Moety Eman A. , El-Shahat M. F.
Published: September 2017

ZnMn2O4nanostructure was preparedviaan auto-combustion method using different fuels, and it was used as a chemical sensor for determination of omeprazole and lansoprazole drugs.
Sr3YLi(PO4)3F:Eu2+,Ln3+: colorless-magenta photochromism and coloration degree regulation through Ln3+ co-doping
Authors: Lv Yang , Jin Yahong , Wang Chuanlong , Chen Li , Ju Guifang , Hu Yihua
Published: September 2017

Herein, novel photochromic materials, Sr3YLi(PO4)3F:Eu2+,Ln3+, have been prepared by a conventional high-temperature solid-state reaction.
Time–temperature superposition in the grain and grain boundary response regime of A2HoRuO6(A = Ba, Sr, Ca) double perovskite ceramics: a conductivity spectroscopic analysis
Authors: Halder Saswata , Dutta Alo , Sinha T. P.
Published: September 2017

The realisation of a universal scaling parameter accounting for the time–temperature superposition principle in different electroactive microstructural domains seems improbable.
Control of interface interactions between natural rubber and solid surfaces through charge effects: an AFM study in force spectroscopic mode
Authors: Chan Alan Jenkin , Sarkar Preetha , Gaboriaud Fabien , Fontaine-Aupart Marie-Pierre , Marlière Christian
Published: September 2017

Adhesion of nanoparticles (natural rubber) is monitored by slight changes in the surface charge state of the contacting solid surfaces.
Efficient and stable single-doped white OLEDs using a palladium-based phosphorescent excimer
Authors: Fleetham Tyler , Ji Yunlong , Huang Liang , Fleetham Trenten S. , Li Jian
Published: September 2017

An efficient and stable palladium based excimer emitter was developed capable of exhibiting maximum EQE over 27% and achieved nearly 3000 h at 1000 cd m−2.
Cholesterol-directed nanoparticle assemblies based on single amino acid peptide mutations activate cellular uptake and decrease tumor volume
Authors: Li Shang , Zou Rongfeng , Tu Yaoquan , Wu Junchen , Landry Markita P.
Published: September 2017

Peptide drugs have been difficult to translate into effective therapies due to their low in vivo stability.
High-voltage aqueous supercapacitors based on NaTFSI
Authors: Reber David , Kühnel Ruben-Simon , Battaglia Corsin
Published: September 2017

We report a highly concentrated aqueous electrolyte with high conductivity that enables stable cycling of activated carbon supercapacitors at 1.8 V.
Design of yield-stress fluids: a rheology-to-structure inverse problem
Authors: Nelson Arif Z. , Ewoldt Randy H.
Published: September 2017

We develop a foundational ontology for organizing, predicting, describing, representing, and designing new yield-stress fluids.
pH-Switchable and self-healable hydrogels based on ketone type acylhydrazone dynamic covalent bonds
Authors: Guo Zanru , Ma Wei , Gu Hongjian , Feng Yujun , He Zhanfeng , Chen Qiang , Mao Xi , Zhang Jiali , Zheng Longzhen
Published: September 2017

A series of hydrogels were constructed using ketone type acylhydrazone, which show switchable sol-gel transition and self-healing ability.
Chemical mediated elasto-capillarity of elastic sheets
Authors: Liu Jianlin , Gong Yulong , Cao Gaofeng
Published: September 2017

Capillary forces can cause outstanding deformation of slender structures, and this behavior holds great potential in a plethora of areas.
Tuning the synthesis of fully conjugated block copolymers to minimize architectural heterogeneity
Authors: Lee Youngmin , Aplan Melissa P. , Seibers Zach D. , Kilbey S. Michael , Wang Qing , Gomez Enrique D.
Published: September 2017

Control of conversion, end group composition, and feed ratio is crucial to minimize homopolymer impurities in the synthesis of conjugated block copolymers for photovoltaics.
Input Subject Diversity Accelerates the Growth of Tense and Agreement: Indirect Benefits From a Parent-Implemented Intervention
Authors: Hadley Pamela A. , Rispoli Matthew , Holt Janet K.
Published: September 2017

Purpose

This follow-up study examined whether a parent intervention that increased the diversity of lexical noun phrase subjects in parent input and accelerated children's sentence diversity (Hadley et al., 2017) had indirect benefits on tense/agreement (T/A) morphemes in parent input and children's spontaneous speech.

Method

Differences in input variables related to T/A marking were compared for parents who received toy talk instruction and a quasi-control group: input informativeness and full
is
declaratives. Language growth on tense agreement productivity (TAP) was modeled for 38 children from language samples obtained at 21, 24, 27, and 30 months. Parent input properties following instruction and children's growth in lexical diversity and sentence diversity were examined as predictors of TAP growth.

Results

Instruction increased parent use of full
is
declaratives (η
p
2
≥ .25) but not input informativeness. Children's sentence diversity was also a significant time-varying predictor of TAP growth. Two input variables, lexical noun phrase subject diversity and full
is
declaratives, were also significant predictors, even after controlling for children's sentence diversity.

Conclusions

These findings establish a link between children's sentence diversity and the development of T/A morphemes and provide evidence about characteristics of input that facilitate growth in this grammatical system.
Dynamic fuzzy data envelopment analysis models: case of bus transport performance assessment
Authors: Yen Barbara T.H. , Chiou Yu-Chiun
Published: September 2017

In the transport field, two characteristics–inter-temporal dependency and fuzziness–need to be considered when assessing transport performance. First, input and output levels are inter-temporal dependent due to heavy capital investment and because quasi-fixed input can influence output levels over multiple periods. Second, conventional Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) models are, in nature, formulated with quantitative variables. However, qualitative measurements that are characterized with “vagueness” or “fuzziness” are as important as quantitative variables for multi-period transport performance assessment. To rectify these problems, the present study extends previous research by proposing a Dynamic Fuzzy Data Envelopment Analysis (DFDEA) method for assessing the comparative efficiency where inter-temporal dependence exists in operating production processes with some “fuzzy” variables. An case study was conducted to evaluate the performance of city bus transport companies in Taipei, Taiwan. Results showed the superiority of the proposed DFDEA model by comparing the results with static models.
Model for Vocabulary Selection of Sensitive Topics: An Example from Pain-Related Vocabulary
Authors: Bornman Juan , Tönsing Kerstin , Johnson Ensa
Published: September 2017

Vocabulary selection for graphic symbol-based augmentative and alternative communication systems is important to enable persons with significant communication difficulties to express a variety of communication functions to indicate needs and wants, to develop social closeness, and to fulfill social etiquette. For persons who experience pain, abuse, bullying, or neglect, it is essential to be able to communicate about sensitive issues. However, published core vocabulary lists allow limited scope for communicating about sensitive topics, due mainly to the techniques employed to determine such lists (e.g., observations or recording of communication patterns of peers with typical development during fun-based or daily activities). This article is based on the outcome of a study of children's pain-related vocabulary. Based on the study, we propose a model for selecting vocabulary on sensitive topics. The model consists of four phases: (1) using hypothetical scenarios; (2) considering different perspectives that may affect vocabulary selection; (3) involving direct stakeholders, and (4) customizing vocabulary.
When You Can't Touch a Touch Screen
Authors: Boster Jamie , McCarthy John
Published: September 2017

A touch screen can be an intuitive interface method for many people. Mobile phones, tablets, and tablet computer combinations have made this technology part of daily use. Touchscreen technologies are common and present unique difficulties for individuals who require alternative access methods. Dedicated augmentative and alternative communication systems continue to offer a range of access methods, but it is also important to examine existing accessibility options from mainstream companies (e.g., Microsoft [Redmond, WA], Apple [Cupertino, CA]) and how current tools can be used to allow individuals to interact with touch screen technologies. An overview of current accessibility features available on popular mainstream devices (e.g., Microsoft Surface, Apple iPad) is provided along with discussion of alternative access methods for current technologies, future research directions, and the potential impact of speech recognition, virtual reality, and augmented reality for interfacing with multiple devices.
Repurposing Consumer Products as a Gateway to Just-in-Time Communication
Authors: O'Brien Meghan , Schlosser Ralf , Yu Christina , Allen Anna , Flynn Suzanne , Costello John , Shane Howard , O'Brien Amanda
Published: September 2017

The rich feature set and flexibility of mobile technology offers a host of novel opportunities to provide specific and timely supports to individuals with communication and memory disorders. These “just-in-time” (JIT) supports can be used as prompts, reminders, rewards, strategies to increase independence, and expressive language supports for children and adults with communication and memory disorders. The purpose of this article is to examine current research on, and propose future directions for, repurposing consumer products to enhance JIT communication within the field of augmentative and alternative communication. Initially, a brief history of JIT supports will be reviewed, including a timeline and history of JIT-enabling technology. Next, the taxonomy of JIT supports will be applied to current research in both individuals with autism spectrum disorder and individuals with acquired communication disorders (e.g., acquired brain injury, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) to illustrate current clinical implications and evaluate current limitations of JIT supports. Finally, future directions for research and expanded use of consumer products to provide JIT supports will be discussed.
Family Leisure as a Context to Support Augmentative and Alternative Communication Intervention for Young Children with Complex Communication Needs
Authors: Mandak Kelsey , Wilkinson Krista , O'Neill Tara
Published: September 2017

Families are often the most significant communication partners for children who require augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Because family-centered approaches are recommended practice in speech-language pathology, a primary role for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) serving children who require AAC is to support families in integrating communication into highly valued, existing family activities. Family leisure activities can provide a naturally supportive context for AAC, because they provide multiple opportunities for children to interact and practice using AAC with natural communication partners. This article aims to guide SLPs in utilizing family leisure as a context for AAC intervention. We describe the benefits and constraints of engaging in leisure for families with children with disabilities. We define family leisure, which includes two distinct types of leisure activities: core and balance. Finally, we provide a case example of a family that highlights the integration of AAC into both types of leisure activities.
3D images, video of crystal structure possible using laser scattering tomography
Authors: Dowd Deborah
Published: September 2017

Researchers demonstrate technique’s possibility for imaging 3D structure, dynamic morphological changes, and even ferroelectric domain alignment.
Does injustice reduce cognitive performance? An experimental test / ¿Provoca la injusticia una disminución en el rendimiento cognitivo? Una prueba empírica
Authors: Correia Isabel , Lopes Ana-Raquel , Alcântara Patrícia , Alves Hélder
Published: September 2017

In this paper we report two experimental studies showing for the first time that injustice causes a reduction in cognitive performance in complex tasks. The two experiments (Study 1, n = 106, Study 2, n = 90) used two different paradigms. In Study 1 participants were exposed to injustice happening to other people. In Study 2 participants themselves were the targets of injustice. In both studies the dependent variable was cognitive performance in a complex task. Specifically, in Study 1, participants solved anagrams, and in Study 2, they solved several Raven matrices. The dependent measures were the number of anagrams and Raven matrices solved correctly. We found that cognitive performance was worse in the unjust condition compared to the just condition (i.e., fewer items solved correctly). These results imply that unfairness in everyday life may have a deleterious effect on individuals’ capacity to think in a complex way. Possible mediators for this effect are proposed.
Impact of a rural solar electrification project on the level and structure of women’s empowerment
Authors: Burney Jennifer , Alaofè Halimatou , Naylor Rosamond , Taren Douglas
Published: September 2017

Although development organizations agree that reliable access to energy and energy services—one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals—is likely to have profound and perhaps disproportionate impacts on women, few studies have directly empirically estimated the impact of energy access on women’s empowerment. This is a result of both a relative dearth of energy access evaluations in general and a lack of clarity on how to quantify gender impacts of development projects. Here we present an evaluation of the impacts of the Solar Market Garden—a distributed photovoltaic irrigation project—on the level and structure of women’s empowerment in Benin, West Africa. We use a quasi-experimental design (matched-pair villages) to estimate changes in empowerment for project beneficiaries after one year of Solar Market Garden production relative to non-beneficiaries in both treatment and comparison villages (n = 771). To create an empowerment metric, we constructed a set of general questions based on existing theories of empowerment, and then used latent variable analysis to understand the underlying structure of empowerment locally. We repeated this analysis at follow-up to understand whether the structure of empowerment had changed over time, and then measured changes in both the levels and likelihood of empowerment over time. We show that the Solar Market Garden significantly positively impacted women’s empowerment, particularly through the domain of economic independence. In addition to providing rigorous evidence for the impact of a rural renewable energy project on women’s empowerment, our work lays out a methodology that can be used in the future to benchmark the gender impacts of energy projects.
MicroRNA-424(322) as a new marker of disease progression in pulmonary arterial hypertension and its role in right ventricular hypertrophy by targeting SMURF1
Authors: Baptista Rui , Marques Carla , Catarino Steve , Enguita Francisco J , Costa Marina C , Matafome Paulo , Zuzarte Mónica , Castro Graça , Reis Abílio , Monteiro Pedro , Pêgo Mariano , Pereira Paulo , Girão Henrique
Published: September 2017

Aims

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of pulmonary hypertension (PH), a multifactorial and progressive condition associated with an increased afterload of the right ventricle leading to heart failure and death. The main aim of this study was to correlate the levels of miR-424(322) with the severity and prognosis of PH and with right ventricle hypertrophy progression. Additionally, we intended to evaluate the mechanisms and signalling pathways whereby miR-424(322) secreted by pulmonary arterial endothelial cells (PAECs) impacts cardiomyocytes.

Methods and results

Using quantitative real-time PCR, we showed that the levels of circulating miR-424(322) are higher in PH patients when compared with healthy subjects. Moreover, we found that miR-424(322) levels correlated with more severe symptoms and haemodynamics. In the subgroup of Eisenmenger syndrome patients, miR-424(322) displayed independent prognostic value. Furthermore, we demonstrated that miR-424(322) targets SMURF1, through which it sustains bone morphogenetic protein receptor 2 signalling. Moreover, we showed that hypoxia induces the secretion of miR-424(322) by PAECs, which after being taken up by cardiomyocytes leads to down-regulation of SMURF1. In the monocrotaline rat model of PH, we found an association between circulating miR-424(322) levels and the stage of right ventricle hypertrophy, as well as an inverse correlation between miR-424(322) and SMURF1 levels in the hypertrophied right ventricle.

Conclusions

This study shows that miR-424(322) has diagnostic and prognostic value in PH patients, correlating with markers of disease severity. Additionally, miR-424(322) can target proteins with a direct effect on heart function, suggesting that this miRNA can act as a messenger linking pulmonary vascular disease and right ventricle hypertrophy.
Clinical Effectiveness of Intra-articular Pulsed Radiofrequency Compared to Intra-articular Corticosteroid Injection for Management of Atlanto-occipital Joint Pain
Authors: Shin So Min , Kwak Sang Gyu , Lee Dong Gyu , Chang Min Cheol
Published: September 2017

Study Design.

A prospective randomized controlled pilot study.

Objective.

We aimed to assess the effectiveness of pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) stimulation on the atlanto-occipital (AO) joint in patients with chronic joint pain. In addition, we compared the effects of AO intra-articular (IA) PRF and AO IA corticosteroid.

Summary of Background Data.

IA injection of corticosteroids into the AO joint is widely used for the management of head and upper cervical pain, and its effectiveness has been shown in previous studies. However, little is known about the effect of PRF stimulation on the AO joint for controlling chronic head or upper cervical pain.

Methods.

Twenty-three consecutive patients with chronic upper cervical pain were enrolled according to the inclusion criteria and divided into one of two groups. Twelve patients received PRF stimulation with a PRF needle electrode in the IA space of the AO joint (PRF group) and 11 patients received AO IA corticosteroid injection (ICI group. Pain intensity was assessed using a numeric rating scale (NRS) before treatment and 1, 3, and 6 months afterward. Successful pain relief was defined as ≥50% reduction in NRS score 6 months post-treatment compared to pretreatment.

Results.

Mean NRS scores were significantly reduced compared to those pretreatment (P < 0.001) in both groups. Temporal changes in NRS score were not significantly different between groups (P = 0.227). Successful pain relief was achieved in 66.7% and 63.6% of patients in the PRF and ICI groups, respectively.

Conclusion.

IA PRF stimulation significantly relieved AO joint pain and its effect persisted for at least 6 months after treatment. In addition, the degree of pain relief after IA PRF was not significantly different from that after ICI. We think that PRF stimulation of the AO joint could be a useful clinical treatment for patients with AO joint pain.

Level of Evidence: 2