bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Down-regulation of β-arrestin2 promotes tumour invasion and indicates poor prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Sun Wu-Yi , Hu Shan-Shan , Wu Jing-Jing , Huang Qiong , Ma Yang , Wang Qing-Tong , Chen Jing-Yu , Wei Wei
Published: October 2016

β-arrestins, including β-arrestin1 and β-arrestin2, are multifunctional adaptor proteins. β-arrestins have recently been found to play new roles in regulating intracellular signalling networks associated with malignant cell functions. Altered β-arrestin expression has been reported in many cancers, but its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is not clear. We therefore examined the roles of β-arrestins in HCC using an animal model of progressive HCC, HCC patient samples and HCC cell lines with stepwise metastatic potential. We demonstrated that β-arrestin2 level, but not β-arrestin1 level, decreased in conjunction with liver tumourigenesis in a mouse diethylnitrosamine-induced liver tumour model. Furthermore, β-arrestin2 expression was reduced in HCC tissues compared with noncancerous tissues in HCC patients. β-arrestin2 down-regulation in HCC was significantly associated with poor patient prognoses and aggressive pathologic features. In addition, our in vitro study showed that β-arrestin2 overexpression significantly reduced cell migration and invasion in cultured HCC cells. Furthermore, β-arrestin2 overexpression up-regulated E-cadherin expression and inhibited vimentin expression and Akt activation. These results suggest that β-arrestin2 down-regulation increases HCC cell migration and invasion ability. Low β-arrestin2 expression may be indicative of a poor prognosis or early cancer recurrence in patients who have undergone surgery for HCC.
Wall Teichoic Acids Are Involved in the Medium-Induced Loss of Function of the Autolysin CD11 against Clostridium difficile
Authors: Wu Xia , Paskaleva Elena E. , Mehta Krunal K. , Dordick Jonathan S. , Kane Ravi S.
Published: October 2016

Bacterial lysins are potent antibacterial enzymes with potential applications in the treatment of bacterial infections. Some lysins lose activity in the growth media of target bacteria, and the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here we use CD11, an autolysin of Clostridium difficile, as a model lysin to demonstrate that the inability of this enzyme to kill C. difficile in growth medium is not associated with inhibition of the enzyme activity by medium, or the modification of the cell wall peptidoglycan. Rather, wall teichoic acids (WTAs) appear to prevent the enzyme from binding to the cells and cleaving the cell wall peptidoglycan. By partially blocking the biosynthetic pathway of WTAs with tunicamycin, cell binding improved and the lytic efficacy of CD11 was significantly enhanced. This is the first report of the mechanism of lysin inactivation in growth medium, and provides insights into understanding the behavior of lysins in complex environments, including the gastrointestinal tract.
Software-defined microwave photonic filter with high reconfigurable resolution
Authors: Wei Wei , Yi Lilin , Jaouën Yves , Hu Weisheng
Published: October 2016

Microwave photonic filters (MPFs) are of great interest in radio frequency systems since they provide prominent flexibility on microwave signal processing. Although filter reconfigurability and tunability have been demonstrated repeatedly, it is still difficult to control the filter shape with very high precision. Thus the MPF application is basically limited to signal selection. Here we present a polarization-insensitive single-passband arbitrary-shaped MPF with ~GHz bandwidth based on stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) in optical fibre. For the first time the filter shape, bandwidth and central frequency can all be precisely defined by software with ~MHz resolution. The unprecedented multi-dimensional filter flexibility offers new possibilities to process microwave signals directly in optical domain with high precision thus enhancing the MPF functionality. Nanosecond pulse shaping by implementing precisely defined filters is demonstrated to prove the filter superiority and practicability.
Artificial light at night affects body mass but not oxidative status in free-living nestling songbirds: an experimental study
Authors: Raap Thomas , Casasole Giulia , Costantini David , AbdElgawad Hamada , Asard Han , Pinxten Rianne , Eens Marcel
Published: October 2016

Artificial light at night (ALAN), termed light pollution, is an increasingly important anthropogenic environmental pressure on wildlife. Exposure to unnatural lighting environments may have profound effects on animal physiology, particularly during early life. Here, we experimentally investigated for the first time the impact of ALAN on body mass and oxidative status during development, using nestlings of a free-living songbird, the great tit (Parus major), an important model species. Body mass and blood oxidative status were determined at baseline (=13 days after hatching) and again after a two night exposure to ALAN. Because it is very difficult to generalise the oxidative status from one or two measures we relied on a multi-biomarker approach. We determined multiple metrics of both antioxidant defences and oxidative damage: molecular antioxidants GSH, GSSG; antioxidant enzymes GPX, SOD, CAT; total non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity and damage markers protein carbonyls and TBARS. Light exposed nestlings showed no increase in body mass, in contrast to unexposed individuals. None of the metrics of oxidative status were affected. Nonetheless, our study provides experimental field evidence that ALAN may negatively affect free-living nestlings’ development and hence may have adverse consequences lasting throughout adulthood.
Stability and its mechanism in Ag/CoOx/Ag interface-type resistive switching device
Authors: Fu Jianbo , Hua Muxin , Ding Shilei , Chen Xuegang , Wu Rui , Liu Shunquan , Han Jingzhi , Wang Changsheng , Du Honglin , Yang Yingchang , Yang Jinbo
Published: October 2016

Stability is an important issue for the application of resistive switching (RS) devices. In this work, the endurance and retention properties of Ag/CoOx/Ag interface-type RS device were investigated. This device exhibits rectifying I–V curve, multilevel storage states and retention decay behavior, which are all related to the Schottky barrier at the interface. The device can switch for thousands of cycles without endurance failure and shows narrow resistance distributions with relatively low fluctuation. However, both the high and low resistance states spontaneously decay to an intermediate resistance state during the retention test. This retention decay phenomenon is due to the short lifetime τ (τ = 0.5 s) of the metastable pinning effect caused by the interface states. The data analysis indicated that the pinning effect is dependent on the depth and density of the interface state energy levels, which determine the retention stability and the switching ratio, respectively. This suggests that an appropriate interface structure can improve the stability of the interface-type RS device
The ubiquitin conjugating enzyme, TaU4 regulates wheat defence against the phytopathogen Zymoseptoria tritici
Authors: Millyard Linda , Lee Jack , Zhang Cunjin , Yates Gary , Sadanandom Ari
Published: October 2016

Mycosphaerella graminicola (Zymoseptoria tritici commonly known as Septoria), the causal agent of Septoria Leaf Blotch (STB), is considered one of the major threats to European wheat production. Previous studies have shown the importance of ubiquitination in plant defence against a multitude of pathogens. However the ubiquitination machinery in wheat is under studied, particularly E2 enzymes that have the ability to control the ubiquitination and thereby the fate of many different target proteins. In this study we identify an E2 enzyme, Triticum aestivum Ubiquitin conjugating enzyme 4 (TaU4) that functions in wheat defence against Septoria. We demonstrate TaU4 to be a bona fide E2 enzyme through an E2 charging assay. TaU4 localises in both the cytoplasm and nucleus, therefore potentially interacting with E3 ligases and substrate proteins in multiple compartments. Virus Induced Gene Silencing of TaU4 in wheat leaves resulted in delayed development of disease symptoms, reduced Septoria growth and reproduction. We conclude that TaU4 is a novel negative regulator of defence against Septoria.
Kinetics of ventilation-induced changes in diaphragmatic metabolism by bilateral phrenic pacing in a piglet model
Authors: Breuer Thomas , Hatam Nima , Grabiger Benjamin , Marx Gernot , Behnke Bradley J. , Weis Joachim , Kopp Ruedger , Gayan-Ramirez Ghislaine , Zoremba Norbert , Bruells Christian S.
Published: October 2016

Perioperative necessity of deep sedation is inevitably associated with diaphragmatic inactivation. This study investigated 1) the feasibility of a new phrenic nerve stimulation method allowing early diaphragmatic activation even in deep sedation and, 2) metabolic changes within the diaphragm during mechanical ventilation compared to artificial activity. 12 piglets were separated into 2 groups. One group was mechanically ventilated for 12 hrs (CMV) and in the second group both phrenic nerves were stimulated via pacer wires inserted near the phrenic nerves to mimic spontaneous breathing (STIM). Lactate, pyruvate and glucose levels were measured continuously using microdialysis. Oxygen delivery and blood gases were measured during both conditions. Diaphragmatic stimulation generated sufficient tidal volumes in all STIM animals. Diaphragm lactate release increased in CMV transiently whereas in STIM lactate dropped during this same time point (2.6 vs. 0.9 mmol L−1 after 5:20 hrs; p < 0.001). CMV increased diaphragmatic pyruvate (40 vs. 146 μmol L−1 after 5:20 hrs between CMV and STIM; p < 0.0001), but not the lactate/pyruvate ratio. Diaphragmatic stimulation via regular electrodes is feasible to generate sufficient ventilation, even in deep sedation. Mechanical ventilation alters the metabolic state of the diaphragm, which might be one pathophysiologic origin of ventilator-induced diaphragmatic dysfunction. Occurrence of hypoxia was unlikely.
A bifunctional cationic porous organic polymer based on a Salen-(Al) metalloligand for the cycloaddition of carbon dioxide to produce cyclic carbonates
Authors: Liu Tao-Tao , Liang Jun , Huang Yuan-Biao , Cao Rong
Published: October 2016

A Salen-(Al)-based bifunctional cationic porous organic polymer (Al-CPOP) exhibited high activity and good recyclability for chemical fixation of CO2.
Specific effects of monovalent counterions on the structural and interfacial properties of dodecyl sulfate monolayers
Authors: Allen Daniel T. , Saaka Yussif , Pardo Luis Carlos , Lawrence M. Jayne , Lorenz Christian D.
Published: October 2016

Shows that NH4+ions dehydrate the DS−headgroup by displacing hydrogen bonded waters from the interface.
Solvent effects on ion–receptor interactions in the presence of an external electric field
Authors: Novák Martin , Foroutan-Nejad Cina , Marek Radek
Published: October 2016

The solvation shells of different ions break at different electric field strengths.
Recent advances in the textural characterization of hierarchically structured nanoporous materials
Authors: Cychosz Katie A. , Guillet-Nicolas Rémy , García-Martínez Javier , Thommes Matthias
Published: October 2016

This review focuses on important aspects of applying physisorption for the pore structural characterization of hierarchical materials such as mesoporous zeolites.
Photoenhanced oxidation of C60aggregates (nC60) by free chlorine in water
Authors: Wu Jiewei , Li Wenlu , Fortner John D.
Published: October 2016

While there have been a number of fundamental studies focused on the physical and biological behaviors of C60aggregates (nC60) in model environmental and engineered systems, the aqueous reactivity of C60(as nC60) is much less understood and remains a critical gap in accurate life cycle modeling.
Galvanic-like cells produced by negative charge nonuniformity of lattice oxygen on d-TiCuAl–SiO2 nanospheres for enhancement of Fenton-catalytic efficiency
Authors: Lyu Lai , Zhang Lili , Hu Chun
Published: October 2016

A novel Fenton-type nano-catalyst consisting of d-TiCuAl–SiO2 nanospheres with countless galvanic-like cells exhibits excellent activity and efficiency for water purification.
TiO2 nanoparticles alter iron homeostasis in Pseudomonas brassicacearum as revealed by PrrF sRNA modulation
Authors: Liu Wei , Bertrand Marie , Chaneac Corinne , Achouak Wafa
Published: October 2016

TiO2 nanoparticles induced oxidant stress and altered iron homeostasis without having any impact on soil bacterium growth under dark conditions.
X-ray absorption fine structure study of enhanced sequestration of U(vi) and Se(iv) by montmorillonite decorated with zero-valent iron nanoparticles
Authors: Hu Baowei , Ye Feng , Ren Xuemei , Zhao Donglin , Sheng Guodong , Li Hui , Ma Jingyuan , Wang Xiangke , Huang Yuying
Published: October 2016

The sequestration of U(vi) on NZVI/Na-Mont and Se(iv) on NZVI/Al-Mont enhanced due to the synergistic effect between adsorption and reduction.
Towards automation of chemical process route selection based on data mining
Authors: Jacob P.-M. , Yamin P. , Perez-Storey C. , Hopgood M. , Lapkin A. A.
Published: October 2016

A methodology for chemical routes development and evaluation on the basis of data-mining is presented.
Retraction: One-pot synthesis of glycidol from glycerol and dimethyl carbonate over a highly efficient and easily available solid catalyst NaAlO2
Authors: Bai Rongxian , Zhang Hongkun , Mei Fuming , Wang Shu , Li Tao , Gu Yanlong , Li Guangxing
Published: October 2016

Retraction of ‘One-pot synthesis of glycidol from glycerol and dimethyl carbonate over a highly efficient and easily available solid catalyst NaAlO2’ by Rongxian Bai, et al., Green Chem., 2013, 15, 2929–2934.
Analysis of worldwide sequence mutations in Zika virus proteins E, NS1, NS3 and NS5 from a structural point of view
Authors: Baez C. F. , Barel V. A. , de Souza A. M. T. , Rodrigues C. R. , Varella R. B. , Cirauqui N.
Published: October 2016

A structural and mutational analysis of ZIKV identifies some protein regions as potential anti-ZIKV targets.
Colorimetric and fluorescence probe for the detection of nano-molar lysine in aqueous medium
Authors: Adhikari Susanta , Ghosh Avijit , Mandal Sandip , Guria Subhajit , Banerjee Prajna Paramita , Chatterjee Ansuman , Das Debasis
Published: October 2016

A new BODIPY based lysine selective probe,THBPY, is synthesized and detects nano-molar lysine in aqueous medium, exhibiting both a visible change in color from yellow-green to orange and a change in the fluorescence profile.
Diastereo- and enantioselective construction of biologically important pyrrolo[1,2-a]indole scaffolds via catalytic asymmetric [3 + 2] cyclodimerizations of 3-alkyl-2-vinylindoles
Authors: Zhu Zi-Qi , Yin Lei , Wang Yang , Shen Yang , Li Can , Mei Guang-Jian , Shi Feng
Published: October 2016

A catalytic asymmetric [3 + 2] cyclodimerization of 3-alkyl-2-vinylindoles has been established, which efficiently constructed a pyrrolo[1,2-a]indole scaffold in a diastereo- and enantioselective fashion.
Facile synthesis of D–π–A structured dyes and their applications towards the cost effective fabrication of solar cells as well as sensing of hazardous Hg(ii)
Authors: Kumavat Priyanka P. , Baviskar Prashant K. , Sankapal Babasaheb R. , Dalal Dipak S.
Published: October 2016

Synthesis of two D–π–A dyes with a multidisciplinary application approach explained on the basis of electron sharing effects.
Concentration-induced structural transition of block polymer self-assemblies on a nanoparticle surface: computer simulation
Authors: Xiang Wenjun , Zhu Zhaoju , Song Xianyu , Zhong Cheng , Wang Chengjie , Ma Yongzhang
Published: October 2016

Film structure of asymmetric triblock copolymers assembled on different degrees of hydrophobic NP surfaces was controlled by concentration.
On-chip electrical detection of parallel loop-mediated isothermal amplification with DG-BioFETs for the detection of foodborne bacterial pathogens
Authors: Duarte-Guevara Carlos , Swaminathan Vikhram V. , Reddy Bobby , Huang Jui-Cheng , Liu Yi-Shao , Bashir Rashid
Published: October 2016

Over one million DG-BioFETs are used for the parallel electrical detection of LAMP reactions identifying the presence of bacterial pathogens, demonstrating a miniaturized DNA-based screening platform.
Development of a γ-polyglutamic acid binder for cathodes with high mass fraction of sulfur
Authors: Qiu Tingting , Shao Hongyuan , Wang Weikun , Zhang Hao , Wang Anbang , Feng Zhenxing , Huang Yaqin
Published: October 2016

PGA binder, with a high density of electron-rich functional groups on the molecule, could suppress diffusion of polysulfides.
One-step synthesis of nickel phosphide nanowire array supported on nickel foam with enhanced electrocatalytic water splitting performance
Authors: Xiao Jian , Lv Qiying , Zhang Yan , Zhang Zheye , Wang Shuai
Published: October 2016

One-step synthesis of a nickel phosphide nanowire array on nickel foam, which can be used as a bifunctional catalyst for water splitting and shows an excellent electrocatalytic activity for the hydrogen and oxygen evolution reaction.
DBU-catalyzed biobased poly(ethylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate) polyester with rapid melt crystallization: synthesis, crystallization kinetics and melting behavior
Authors: Wu Jiaping , Xie Hongzhou , Wu Linbo , Li Bo-Geng , Dubois Philippe
Published: October 2016

PEF synthesized by non-metallic catalyst (DBU) exhibited rapid melt crystallization in both non-isothermal and isothermal conditions.
High adsorption capacity by creating a hydrophobic/hydrophilic layer on the surface of silicalite-1
Authors: Chen Sheng , Li Guofeng , Yuan Qipeng
Published: October 2016

Silicalite-1 was first modified by dodecafluoroheptyl-propyl-trimethoxysilane (DPTS) to give a hydrophobic layer on the surface of silicalite-1 to prevent the adsorption of water.
Fabrication of biocompatible nanohybrid shish-kebab-structured carbon nanotubes with a mussel-inspired layer
Authors: Wu Tong , Sha Jin , Peng Yiyan , Chen Xin , Xie Linsheng , Ma Yulu , Turng Lih-Sheng
Published: October 2016

The first report investigating the biocompatibility of the (polydopamine coated) carbon nanotubes/polymer nanohybrid shish-kebab structure for tissue engineering.
Glucose-assisted synthesis and wet-chemistry preparation of pyrophosphate cathodes for rechargeable Na-ion batteries
Authors: Tealdi Cristina , Ricci Monica , Ferrara Chiara , Bruni Giovanna , Berbenni Vittorio , Quartarone Eliana , Mustarelli Piercarlo
Published: October 2016

Different synthetic procedures were tested to potentially tune the electrochemical performances of Na2FeP2O7. The electrochemical properties are enhanced when an electronically-conducting carbon source is produced during the synthesis.
Dielectric characteristics of Fe-doped LaTiO3+δ and visible light modulation
Authors: Chen Yan , Cui Yimin , Yao Jun-en
Published: October 2016

Fe-doped La1−xFexTiO3+δ (x = 0.05, 0.1, and 0.3, 0.4) ceramic samples were prepared via traditional solid-state reaction route, in which the dielectric properties of visible light modulation were found at room temperature in the measured frequency range.
Effect of 7S/11S ratio on the network structure of heat-induced soy protein gels: a study of probe release
Authors: Wu Chao , Hua Yufei , Chen Yeming , Kong Xiangzhen , Zhang Caimeng
Published: October 2016

The effect of 7S/11S ratio on the soy gel network will be uncovered by probe diffusion kinetics.
Immobilized NNN Pd-complex on magnetic nanoparticles: efficient and reusable catalyst for Heck and Sonogashira coupling reactions
Authors: Dehghani Firuzabadi Fahimeh , Asadi Zahra , Panahi Farhad
Published: October 2016

A highly efficient and easily recyclable magnetic nanoparticle supported palladium catalyst was developed and applied in the Heck and Sonogashira reactions in order to show its catalytic applicability in Pd-catalyzed C–C coupling protocols.
Aerosol-assisted synthesis of nano-sized ZSM-5 aggregates
Authors: Xiong Guang , Yin Jinpeng , Liu Jiaxu , Liu Xiyan , Guo Zhendong , Liu Liping
Published: October 2016

An aerosol-assisted method is used to synthesize nano-sized ZSM-5 aggregates with good texture properties and Al species distribution.
Synthesis and characterization of lipophilic cationic Ga(iii) complexes based on the H2CHXdedpa and H2dedpa ligands and their 67/68Ga radiolabeling studies
Authors: Ramogida C. F. , Schindler D. , Schneider C. , Tan Y. L. K. , Huh S. , Ferreira C. L. , Adam M. J. , Orvig C.
Published: October 2016

Novel lipophilic H2dedpa or H2CHXdedpa analogues have been synthesized, characterized, and radiolabeled with 67/68Ga3+ in 10 minutes at ambient temperature.
Biocompatible titanate nanotubes with high loading capacity of genistein: cytotoxicity study and anti-migratory effect on U87-MG cancer cell lines
Authors: Baati Tarek , Kefi Bochra Bejaoui , Aouane Aicha , Njim Leila , Chaspoul Florence , Heresanu Vasile , Kerkeni Abdelhamid , Neffati Fadoua , Hammami Mohamed
Published: October 2016

Titanate nanotubes (Ti-Nts) have proved to be a potential candidate for drug delivery due to their large surface change and higher cellular uptake as a direct consequence of their tubular shape.
Correction: The origin of room temperature ferromagnetism mediated by Co–VZn complexes in the ZnO grain boundary
Authors: Sasikala Devi Assa Aravindh , Roqan Iman S.
Published: October 2016

Correction for ‘The origin of room temperature ferromagnetism mediated by Co–VZn complexes in the ZnO grain boundary’ by Assa Aravindh Sasikala Devi and Iman S. Roqan, RSC Adv., 2016, 6, 50818–50824.
Welcoming natural isotopic abundance in solid-state NMR: probing π-stacking and supramolecular structure of organic nanoassemblies using DNP
Authors: Märker Katharina , Paul Subhradip , Fernández-de-Alba Carlos , Lee Daniel , Mouesca Jean-Marie , Hediger Sabine , De Paëpe Gaël
Published: October 2016

The low natural abundance of 13C combined with MAS-DNP enables 13C–13C polarization transfer up to ∼7 Å and observation of π-stacking.
Elimination of the J–V hysteresis of planar perovskite solar cells by interfacial modification with a thermo-cleavable fullerene derivative
Authors: Xu Qian , Lu Zhen , Zhu Lifeng , Kou Chun , Liu Yahui , Li Cuihong , Meng Qingbo , Li Wenhua , Bo Zhishan
Published: October 2016

Efficient hysteresis elimination and significant performance improvement are achieved by interfacial modification with a thermo-cleavable fullerene derivative.
TiN as a simple and efficient polysulfide immobilizer for lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Hao Zhangxiang , Yuan Lixia , Chen Chaoji , Xiang Jingwei , Li Yuyu , Huang Zhimei , Hu Pei , Huang Yunhui
Published: October 2016

HF-etched TiN is used to replace carbon as a novel polysulfide immobilizer to achieve a high-performance sulfur cathode.
Band alignment engineering for high-energy-density solid-state asymmetric supercapacitors with TiO2 insertion at the ZnO/Ni(OH)2 interface
Authors: Zheng Xin , Yan Xiaoqin , Sun Yihui , Li Yong , Li Minghua , Zhang Guangjie , Zhang Yue
Published: October 2016

An adaptive interface electronic band structure was designed for improving the capacitance by introducing a TiO2 embedding layer at the ZnO/Ni(OH)2 interface.
Dichotomous roles of TGF-β in human cancer
Authors: Huang Jennifer J. , Blobe Gerard C.
Published: October 2016

Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) mediates numerous biological processes, including embryonic development and the maintenance of cellular homeostasis in a context-dependent manner. Consistent with its central role in maintaining cellular homeostasis, inhibition of TGF-β signaling results in disruption of normal homeostatic processes and subsequent carcinogenesis, defining the TGF-β signaling pathway as a tumor suppressor. However, once carcinogenesis is initiated, the TGF-β signaling pathway promotes cancer progression. This dichotomous function of the TGF-β signaling pathway is mediated through altering effects on both the cancer cells, by inducing apoptosis and inhibiting proliferation, and the tumor microenvironment, by promoting angiogenesis and inhibiting immunosurveillance. Current studies support inhibition of TGF-β signaling either alone, or in conjunction with anti-angiogenic therapy or immunotherapy as a promising strategy for the treatment of human cancers.
Toward a therapy for mitochondrial disease
Authors: Viscomi Carlo
Published: October 2016

Mitochondrial disorders are a group of genetic diseases affecting the energy-converting process of oxidative phosphorylation. The extreme variability of symptoms, organ involvement, and clinical course represent a challenge to the development of effective therapeutic interventions. However, new possibilities have recently been emerging from studies in model organisms and awaiting verification in humans. I will discuss here the most promising experimental approaches and the challenges we face to translate them into the clinics. The current clinical trials will also be briefly reviewed.
Insights into the post-transcriptional regulation of the mitochondrial electron transport chain
Authors: Sirey Tamara M. , Ponting Chris P.
Published: October 2016

The regulation of the mitochondrial electron transport chain is central to the control of cellular homeostasis. There are significant gaps in our understanding of how the expression of the mitochondrial and nuclear genome-encoded components of the electron transport chain are co-ordinated, and how the assembly of the protein complexes that constitute the electron transport chain are regulated. Furthermore, the role post-transcriptional gene regulation may play in modulating these processes needs to be clarified. This review summarizes the current knowledge regarding the post-transcriptional gene regulation of the electron transport chain and highlights how noncoding RNAs may contribute significantly both to complex electron transport chain regulatory networks and to mitochondrial dysfunction.
Control of HIV-1 gene expression by SR proteins
Authors: Mahiet Charlotte , Swanson Chad M.
Published: October 2016

Cellular proteins are required for all steps of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) gene expression including transcription, splicing, 3′-end formation/polyadenylation, nuclear export and translation. SR proteins are a family of cellular RNA-binding proteins that regulate and functionally integrate multiple steps of gene expression. Specific SR proteins are best characterised for regulating HIV-1 RNA splicing by binding specific locations in the viral RNA, though recently they have also been shown to control transcription, 3′-end formation, and translation. Due to their importance in regulating HIV-1 gene expression, SR proteins and their regulatory factors are potential antiviral drug targets.
The PLK4–STIL–SAS-6 module at the core of centriole duplication
Authors: Arquint Christian , Nigg Erich A.
Published: October 2016

Centrioles are microtubule-based core components of centrosomes and cilia. They are duplicated exactly once during S-phase progression. Central to formation of each new (daughter) centriole is the formation of a nine-fold symmetrical cartwheel structure onto which microtubule triplets are deposited. In recent years, a module comprising the protein kinase polo-like kinase 4 (PLK4) and the two proteins STIL and SAS-6 have been shown to stay at the core of centriole duplication. Depletion of any one of these three proteins blocks centriole duplication and, conversely, overexpression causes centriole amplification. In this short review article, we summarize recent insights into how PLK4, STIL and SAS-6 co-operate in space and time to form a new centriole. These advances begin to shed light on the very first steps of centriole biogenesis.
Diaphanous-related formin 1 as a target for tumor therapy
Authors: Lin Yuan-Na , Windhorst Sabine
Published: October 2016

Formins nucleate actin and stabilize microtubules (MTs). Expression of the formin Diaphanous homolog 1 (DIAPH1) is increased in malignant colon carcinoma cells, while expression of DIAPH3 is up-regulated in breast and prostate carcinoma cells. Both DIAPH1 isoforms are required to stabilize interphase MTs of cancer cells, and it has been shown that loss of this function decreases the metastatic potential of these cells. Moreover, depletion of DIAPH3 increases the sensitivity of breast and prostate carcinoma cells to taxanes. In contrast with DIAPH1 + 3, DIAPH2 regulates metaphase MTs of tumor cells by stabilizing binding of kinetochore MTs to chromosomes. Depletion of DIAPH2 impairs chromosome alignment, thus proper chromosome segregation during mitosis. In summary, expression of DIAPH formins in tumor cells is essential for stabilizing interphase or metaphase MTs, respectively. Thus, it would be very interesting to analyze if tumor cells exhibiting low DIAPH expression are more sensitive to taxanes than those with high DIAPH expression.
Regulation of the phosphatase PP2B by protein–protein interactions
Authors: Nygren Patrick J. , Scott John D.
Published: October 2016

Protein dephosphorylation is important for regulating cellular signaling in a variety of contexts. Protein phosphatase-2B (PP2B), or calcineurin, is a widely expressed serine/threonine phosphatase that acts on a large cross section of potential protein substrates when activated by increased levels of intracellular calcium in concert with calmodulin. PxIxIT and LxVP targeting motifs are important for maintaining specificity in response to elevated calcium. In the present study, we describe the mechanism of PP2B activation, discuss its targeting by conserved binding motifs and review recent advances in the understanding of an A-kinase anchoring protein 79/PP2B/protein kinase A complex's role in synaptic long-term depression. Finally, we discuss potential for targeting PP2B anchoring motifs for therapeutic benefit.
Extracellular matrix endocytosis in controlling matrix turnover and beyond: emerging roles in cancer
Authors: Rainero Elena
Published: October 2016

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a network of secreted proteins that, beyond providing support for tissues and organs, is involved in the regulation of a variety of cell functions, including cell proliferation, polarity, migration and oncogenic transformation. ECM homeostasis is maintained through a tightly controlled balance between synthesis, deposition and degradation. While the role of metalloproteases in ECM degradation is widely recognised, the contribution of ECM internalisation and intracellular degradation to ECM maintenance has been mostly overlooked. In this review, I will summarise what is known about the molecular mechanisms mediating ECM endocytosis and how this process impacts on diseases, such as fibrosis and cancer.
The control of inflammation via the phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of tristetraprolin: a tale of two phosphatases
Authors: Clark Andrew R. , Dean Jonathan L.E.
Published: October 2016

Twenty years ago, the first description of a tristetraprolin (TTP) knockout mouse highlighted the fundamental role of TTP in the restraint of inflammation. Since then, work from several groups has generated a detailed picture of the expression and function of TTP. It is a sequence-specific RNA-binding protein that orchestrates the deadenylation and degradation of several mRNAs encoding inflammatory mediators. It is very extensively post-translationally modified, with more than 30 phosphorylations that are supported by at least two independent lines of evidence. The phosphorylation of two particular residues, serines 52 and 178 of mouse TTP (serines 60 and 186 of the human orthologue), has profound effects on the expression, function and localisation of TTP. Here, we discuss the control of TTP biology via its phosphorylation and dephosphorylation, with a particular focus on recent advances and on questions that remain unanswered.
The contribution of intrinsically disordered regions to protein function, cellular complexity, and human disease
Authors: Babu M. Madan
Published: October 2016

In the 1960s, Christian Anfinsen postulated that the unique three-dimensional structure of a protein is determined by its amino acid sequence. This work laid the foundation for the sequence–structure–function paradigm, which states that the sequence of a protein determines its structure, and structure determines function. However, a class of polypeptide segments called intrinsically disordered regions does not conform to this postulate. In this review, I will first describe established and emerging ideas about how disordered regions contribute to protein function. I will then discuss molecular principles by which regulatory mechanisms, such as alternative splicing and asymmetric localization of transcripts that encode disordered regions, can increase the functional versatility of proteins. Finally, I will discuss how disordered regions contribute to human disease and the emergence of cellular complexity during organismal evolution.
Target identification using bistatic high‐resolution range profiles
Authors: Lee Seung‐Jae , Jeong Seong‐Jae , Yang Eunjung , Kim Kyung‐Tae
Published: October 2016

A novel target identification scheme that utilises high‐resolution range profiles (HRRPs), which are obtained using bistatic (BS) radar (BS‐HRRPs) and four‐dimensional (4D) parameter sets (PSs), is described. These PSs uniquely determine the BS‐HRRPs. In the proposed scheme, a new feature to cope with the scale variances of the BS‐HRRPs is devised by using the RELAX algorithm and the resampling process. In addition, a proper classifier to effectively exploit both the BS‐HRRPs and 4D PSs is designed to improve the BS identification capability.
Biometric analysis using fused feature set from side face texture and electrocardiogram
Authors: Chakraborty Samik , Mitra Madhuchhanda , Pal Saurabh
Published: October 2016

Multimodal biometric authentication requires fusion of information extracted from different biometric modalities. Face recognition is the most common and versatile biometric parameter used for years. Recently, biosignals such as electrocardiogram (ECG), photoplathysmogram etc. are under study for probable use in authentication work. It is also established that multi‐parameter approach in biometric analysis plays a vital role in increasing accuracy and robustness and preventing spoofing in spite of more computational demand. In the present study, information fusion based authentication system is proposed using face and ECG. Instead of conventional face image, a unique frontal face textural signal is proposed. This leads to simpler data processing similar to that of ECG signal. Finally, information from both the signals is fused at mother template generation level. A good accuracy is achieved using mean square deviation method as presented in the result section. A stability study is also made with five volunteers to check the long term variability of the features.
Vers de nouvelles cibles de traitement pour l’hypertension artérielle ?
Authors: Faucon Anne-Laure , Madjalian Anne-Marie , Bobrie Guillaume , Amar Laurence , Azizi Michel
Published: October 2016

La pression artérielle est un déterminant majeur du risque cardiovasculaire. La cible de pression artérielle à atteindre sous traitement antihypertenseur et la population à laquelle elle doit s’appliquer restent très débattues. Les cibles tensionnelles fixées par les sociétés savantes pourraient être revues à la baisse après la publication des résultats de l’essai multicentrique nord-américain SPRINT (systolic blood pressure intervention trial). L’analyse de l’applicabilité des résultats de l’étude SPRINT montre qu’ils sont complexes à appliquer à la population française et que les implications médicales et économiques pourraient être importantes.
Roll-to-roll hot embossing system with shape preserving mechanism for the large-area fabrication of microstructures
Authors: Peng Linfa , Wu Hao , Shu Yunyi , Yi Peiyun , Deng Yujun , Lai Xinmin
Published: October 2016

Roll-to-roll (R2R) hot embossing is a promising approach to fulfilling the demands of high throughput fabrication of large-area polymeric components with micro-structure arrays which have been widely employed in the domains of optics, optoelectronics, biology, chemistry, etc. Nevertheless, the characteristic of continuous and fast forming for the R2R hot embossing process limits material flow during filling stage and results in significant springback during demolding stage. As a result, forming defects usually appear and the process window is very narrow which hinders the industrialization of this technology. This study developed a R2R hot embossing machine and proposed a shape preserving mechanism to extend the material filling time and realized the cooling effect during the demolding process. Comparative experiments were conducted on the R2R hot embossing process for micro-pyramid arrays to understand the effect of shape preserving mechanism. The influence of tension force and encapsulation angle to the forming quality was systematically analyzed. Furthermore, the influence of processing parameters has been investigated by using the one-variable-at-a-time method. Afterwards, a series of experiments based on the central composite design approach have been conducted for the analysis of variance and the establishment of empirical models of the R2R hot embossing process. As a result, the process window was extended by the shape preserving mechanism. More importantly, the feeding speed was improved from 0.5 m min−1 to 2.5 m min−1 for the large-area fabrication of micro-pyramid arrays, which is very attractive to the industrialization of this technology.
Consistent post-reaction vibrational energy redistribution in DSMC simulations using TCE model
Authors: Borges Sebastião Israel , Alexeenko Alina
Published: October 2016

The direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method has been widely applied to study shockwaves, hypersonic reentry flows, and other nonequilibrium flow phenomena. Although there is currently active research on high-fidelity models based on ab initio data, the total collision energy (TCE) and Larsen-Borgnakke (LB) models remain the most often used chemistry and relaxation models in DSMC simulations, respectively. The conventional implementation of the discrete LB model, however, may not satisfy detailed balance when recombination and exchange reactions play an important role in the flow energy balance. This issue can become even more critical in reacting mixtures involving polyatomic molecules, such as in combustion. In this work, this important shortcoming is addressed and an empirical approach to consistently specify the post-reaction vibrational states close to thermochemical equilibrium conditions is proposed within the TCE framework. Following Bird’s quantum-kinetic (QK) methodology for populating post-reaction states, the new TCE-based approach involves two main steps. The state-specific TCE reaction probabilities for a forward reaction are first pre-computed from equilibrium 0-D simulations. These probabilities are then employed to populate the post-reaction vibrational states of the corresponding reverse reaction. The new approach is illustrated by application to exchange and recombination reactions relevant to H2–O2 combustion processes.
Observation of plant–pathogen interaction by simultaneous hyperspectral imaging reflection and transmission measurements
Authors: Thomas Stefan , Wahabzada Mirwaes , Kuska Matheus Thomas , Rascher Uwe , Mahlein Anne-Katrin
Published: October 2016

Hyperspectral imaging sensors are valuable tools for plant disease detection and plant phenotyping. Reflectance properties are influenced by plant pathogens and resistance responses, but changes of transmission characteristics of plants are less described. In this study we used simultaneously recorded reflectance and transmittance imaging data of resistant and susceptible barley genotypes that were inoculated with Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei to evaluate the added value of imaging transmission, reflection and absorption for characterisation of disease development. These datasets were statistically analysed using principal component analysis, and compared with visual and molecular disease estimation. Reflection measurement performed significantly better for early detection of powdery mildew infection, colonies could be detected 2 days before symptoms became visible in RGB images. Transmission data could be used to detect powdery mildew 2 days after symptoms becoming visible in reflection based RGB images. Additionally distinct transmission changes occurred at 580–650 nm for pixels containing disease symptoms. It could be shown that the additional information of the transmission data allows for a clearer spatial differentiation and localisation between powdery mildew symptoms and necrotic tissue on the leaf then purely reflectance based data. Thus the information of both measurement approaches are complementary: reflectance based measurements facilitate an early detection, and transmission measurements provide additional information to better understand and quantify the complex spatio-temporal dynamics of plant-pathogen interactions.
Fire severity alters spatio–temporal movements and habitat utilisation by an arboreal marsupial, the mountain brushtail possum (Trichosurus cunninghami)
Authors: Berry L. E. , Lindenmayer D. B. , Dennis T. E. , Driscoll D. A. , Banks S. C.
Published: October 2016

Understanding how severe wildfires influence faunal movement is essential for predicting how changes in fire regimes will affect ecosystems. We examined the effects of fire severity distribution on spatial and temporal variation in movement of an Australian arboreal mammal, the mountain brushtail possum (Trichosurus cunninghami). We used GPS telemetry to characterise the movements of 18 possums in landscapes burnt to differing extents by a large wildfire. We identified a temporal change in movement patterns in response to fire. In unburnt landscapes, individuals moved greater distances early and late in the night and had less overlap in the areas used for foraging and denning, than in high-severity burnt landscapes. Habitat selection was dependent on the spatial context of fire in the surrounding landscape. Forest recently burnt at high severity may provide suitable habitat for species such as the mountain brushtail possum, if protected from subsequent disturbance, such as salvage logging. However, spatial and temporal patterns of habitat use and selection differ considerably between burnt and undisturbed landscapes. The spatial outcomes of ecological disturbances such as wildfires have the potential to alter the behaviour and functional roles of fauna across large areas.
Network dismantling
Authors: Braunstein Alfredo , Dall’Asta Luca , Semerjian Guilhem , Zdeborová Lenka
Published: October 2016

Significance

Many systems of interest can be represented by a network of nodes connected by edges. In many circumstances, the existence of a giant component is necessary for the network to fulfill its function. Motivated by the need to understand optimal attack strategies, optimal spread of information, or immunization policies, we study the network dismantling problem (i.e., the search for a minimal set of nodes in which removal leaves the network broken into components of subextensive size). We give the size of the optimal dismantling set for random networks, propose an efficient dismantling algorithm for general networks that outperforms by a large margin existing strategies, and provide various insights about the problem.
Dramatherapy – the French Way
Authors: Pitarque Sandrine
Published: October 2016

In France the historical dominance of psychoanalysis has brought an original way of thinking about the use of theatre and drama for therapeutic goals. Two important schools developed in the 1970s and 1980s: the French psychoanalytic psychodrama, distinct from Moreno's, which has introduced many useful concepts particularly for group treatment; whilst the ‘therapeutic mediations’ have constructed major theoretical and clinical thoughts. After explaining these concepts, the article explores several dramatherapy structures based on them. It ends with a critical analysis of this psychoanalytic orientation for dramatherapy.
Effect of oral theaflavin administration on body weight, fat, and muscle in healthy subjects: a randomized pilot study
Authors: Aizawa Teruki , Yamamoto Ayaka , Ueno Tomoya
Published: October 2016

Theaflavins are reddish-colored polyphenols in black tea. To test the efficacy of theaflavin administration on body fat and muscle, we performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study and investigated the effect of theaflavins administration on the body composition using of healthy subjects. In this study, 30 male and female Japanese were enrolled and participants were randomly allocated to receive placebo, theaflavin (50 or 100 mg/day), or catechin (400 mg/ml) for 10 weeks. The effects were evaluated using body weight, body fat percentage, subcutaneous fat percentage, and skeletal muscle percentage. Theaflavin administration significantly improved body fat percentage, subcutaneous fat percentage, and skeletal muscle percentage when compared to with the placebo. In contrast, there was no significant difference in all measured outcomes between the catechin and the placebo groups. The results indicate that oral administration of theaflavin had a beneficial effect on body fat and muscle in healthy individuals.
The visual number world: A dynamic approach to study the mathematical mind
Authors: Hartmann Matthias , Laubrock Jochen , Fischer Martin H
Published: October 2016

In the domain of language research, the simultaneous presentation of a visual scene and its auditory description (i.e., the visual world paradigm) has been used to reveal the timing of mental mechanisms. Here we apply this rationale to the domain of numerical cognition in order to explore the differences between fast and slow arithmetic performance, and to further study the role of spatial-numerical associations during mental arithmetic. We presented 30 healthy adults simultaneously with visual displays containing four numbers and with auditory addition and subtraction problems. Analysis of eye movements revealed that participants look spontaneously at the numbers they currently process (operands, solution). Faster performance was characterized by shorter latencies prior to fixating the relevant numbers and fewer revisits to the first operand while computing the solution. These signatures of superior task performance were more pronounced for addition and visual numbers arranged in ascending order, and for subtraction and numbers arranged in descending order (compared to the opposite pairings). Our results show that the “visual number world”-paradigm provides on-line access to the mind during mental arithmetic, is able to capture variability in arithmetic performance, and is sensitive to visual layout manipulations that are otherwise not reflected in response time measurements.
Clarkson & Hill's Conflict of Laws
Authors: Hill Jonathan , Ní Shúilleabháin Máire
Published: October 2016

Clarkson & Hill's Conflict of Laws, now in its fifth edition, provides a clear and up-to-date account of private international law topics. Theoretical issues and fundamental principles are introduced in the first chapter and expanded upon in later chapters. Basic principles of the conflict of laws are presented, offering clarity on complex points and terminology. The fifth edition reflects the field's changing focus from case law to domestic and European legislation, incorporating the Brussels I Regulation and Brussels II Revised Regulation, as well as the more recent Rome Regulations and Brussels I Recast. Embracing this reorientation of the field and increased emphasis on the recognition and enforcement of judgments, the chapters provide detailed commentary on the most important commercial topics as well as the most relevant topics in family law.