bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obliquity pacing of the western Pacific Intertropical Convergence Zone over the past 282,000 years
Authors: Liu Yi , Lo Li , Shi Zhengguo , Wei Kuo-Yen , Chou Chien-Ju , Chen Yi-Chi , Chuang Chih-Kai , Wu Chung-Che , Mii Horng-Sheng , Peng Zicheng , Amakawa Hiroshi , Burr George S. , Lee Shih-Yu , DeLong Kristine L. , Elderfield Henry , Shen Chuan-Chou
Published: November 2015

The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) encompasses the heaviest rain belt on the Earth. Few direct long-term records, especially in the Pacific, limit our understanding of long-term natural variability for predicting future ITCZ migration. Here we present a tropical precipitation record from the Southern Hemisphere covering the past 282,000 years, inferred from a marine sedimentary sequence collected off the eastern coast of Papua New Guinea. Unlike the precession paradigm expressed in its East Asian counterpart, our record shows that the western Pacific ITCZ migration was influenced by combined precession and obliquity changes. The obliquity forcing could be primarily delivered by a cross-hemispherical thermal/pressure contrast, resulting from the asymmetric continental configuration between Asia and Australia in a coupled East Asian–Australian circulation system. Our finding suggests that the obliquity forcing may play a more important role in global hydroclimate cycles than previously thought.
Symmetry breaking in drop bouncing on curved surfaces
Authors: Liu Yahua , Andrew Matthew , Li Jing , Yeomans Julia M. , Wang Zuankai
Published: November 2015

The impact of liquid drops on solid surfaces is ubiquitous in nature, and of practical importance in many industrial processes. A drop hitting a flat surface retains a circular symmetry throughout the impact process. Here we show that a drop impinging on Echevaria leaves exhibits asymmetric bouncing dynamics with distinct spreading and retraction along two perpendicular directions. This is a direct consequence of the cylindrical leaves that have a convex/concave architecture of size comparable to the drop. Systematic experimental investigations on mimetic surfaces and lattice Boltzmann simulations reveal that this novel phenomenon results from an asymmetric momentum and mass distribution that allows for preferential fluid pumping around the drop rim. The asymmetry of the bouncing leads to ∼40% reduction in contact time.
Wnt/β-catenin pathway regulates MGMT gene expression in cancer and inhibition of Wnt signalling prevents chemoresistance
Authors: Wickström Malin , Dyberg Cecilia , Milosevic Jelena , Einvik Christer , Calero Raul , Sveinbjörnsson Baldur , Sandén Emma , Darabi Anna , Siesjö Peter , Kool Marcel , Kogner Per , Baryawno Ninib , Johnsen John Inge
Published: November 2015

The DNA repair enzyme O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) is commonly overexpressed in cancers and is implicated in the development of chemoresistance. The use of drugs inhibiting MGMT has been hindered by their haematologic toxicity and inefficiency. As a different strategy to inhibit MGMT we investigated cellular regulators of MGMT expression in multiple cancers. Here we show a significant correlation between Wnt signalling and MGMT expression in cancers with different origin and confirm the findings by bioinformatic analysis and immunofluorescence. We demonstrate Wnt-dependent MGMT gene expression and cellular co-localization between active β-catenin and MGMT. Pharmacological or genetic inhibition of Wnt activity downregulates MGMT expression and restores chemosensitivity of DNA-alkylating drugs in mouse models. These findings have potential therapeutic implications for chemoresistant cancers, especially of brain tumours where the use of temozolomide is frequently used in treatment.
Impact of Mycobacterium tuberculosis RD1-locus on human primary dendritic cell immune functions
Authors: Etna Marilena P. , Giacomini Elena , Pardini Manuela , Severa Martina , Bottai Daria , Cruciani Melania , Rizzo Fabiana , Calogero Raffaele , Brosch Roland , Coccia Eliana M.
Published: November 2015

Modern strategies to develop vaccines against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) aim to improve the current Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine or to attenuate the virulence of Mtb vaccine candidates. In the present study, the impact of wild type or mutated region of difference 1 (RD1) variants on the immunogenicity of Mtb and BCG recombinants was investigated in human primary dendritic cells (DC). A comparative analysis of transcriptome, signalling pathway activation, maturation, apoptosis, cytokine production and capacity to promote Th1 responses demonstrated that DC sense quantitative and qualitative differences in the expression of RD1-encoded factors—ESAT6 and CFP10—within BCG or Mtb backgrounds. Expansion of IFN-γ producing T cells was promoted by BCG::RD1-challenged DC, as compared to their BCG-infected counterparts. Although Mtb recombinants acted as a strong Th-1 promoting stimulus, even with RD1 deletion, the attenuated Mtb strain carrying a C-terminus truncated ESAT-6 elicited a robust Th1 promoting phenotype in DC. Collectively, these studies indicate a necessary but not sufficient role for the RD1 locus in promoting DC immune-regulatory functions. Additional mycobacterial factors are likely required to endow DC with a high Th1 polarizing capacity, a desirable attribute for a successful control of Mtb infection.
Antiferromagnetic structure in tetragonal CuMnAs thin films
Authors: Wadley P. , Hills V. , Shahedkhah M. R. , Edmonds K. W. , Campion R. P. , Novák V. , Ouladdiaf B. , Khalyavin D. , Langridge S. , Saidl V. , Nemec P. , Rushforth A. W. , Gallagher B. L. , Dhesi S. S. , Maccherozzi F. , Železný J. , Jungwirth T.
Published: November 2015

Tetragonal CuMnAs is an antiferromagnetic material with favourable properties for applications in spintronics. Using a combination of neutron diffraction and x-ray magnetic linear dichroism, we determine the spin axis and magnetic structure in tetragonal CuMnAs and reveal the presence of an interfacial uniaxial magnetic anisotropy. From the temperature-dependence of the neutron diffraction intensities, the Néel temperature is shown to be (480 ± 5) K. Ab initio calculations indicate a weak anisotropy in the (ab) plane for bulk crystals, with a large anisotropy energy barrier between in-plane and perpendicular-to-plane directions.
Widespread Positive Selection Drives Differentiation of Centromeric Proteins in the Drosophila melanogaster subgroup
Authors: Beck Emily A. , Llopart Ana
Published: November 2015

Rapid evolution of centromeric satellite repeats is thought to cause compensatory amino acid evolution in interacting centromere-associated kinetochore proteins. Cid, a protein that mediates kinetochore/centromere interactions, displays particularly high amino acid turnover. Rapid evolution of both Cid and centromeric satellite repeats led us to hypothesize that the apparent compensatory evolution may extend to interacting partners in the Condensin I complex (i.e., SMC2, SMC4, Cap-H, Cap-D2 and Cap-G) and HP1s. Missense mutations in these proteins often result in improper centromere formation and aberrant chromosome segregation, thus selection for maintained function and coevolution among proteins of the complex is likely strong. Here, we report evidence of rapid evolution and recurrent positive selection in seven centromere-associated proteins in species of the Drosophila melanogaster subgroup and further postulate that positive selection on these proteins could be a result of centromere drive and compensatory changes, with kinetochore proteins competing for optimal spindle attachment.
Bottom pressure scaling of vibro-fluidized granular matter
Authors: Katsuragi Hiroaki
Published: November 2015

Vibrated granular beds show various interesting phenomena such as convection, segregation and so on. However, its fundamental physical properties (e.g., internal pressure structure) have not yet been understood well. Thus, in this study, the bottom wall pressure in a vertically vibrated granular column is experimentally measured and used to reveal the nature of granular fluidization. The scaling method allows us to elucidate the fluidization (softening) degree of a vibrated granular column. The peak value of the bottom pressure pm is scaled as "Equation missing"Γ, where pJ, d, g, ω, H and Γ are the Janssen pressure, grain diameter, gravitational acceleration, angular frequency, height of the column and dimensionless vibrational acceleration, respectively. This scaling implies that the pressure of vibrated granular matter is quite different from the classical pressure forms: static and dynamic pressures. This scaling represents the importance of geometric factors for discussing the behavior of vibro-fluidized granular matter. The scaling is also useful to evaluate the dissipation degree in vibro-fluidized granular matter.
Integrated network model provides new insights into castration-resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Hu Yanling , Gu Yinmin , Wang Huimin , Huang Yuanjie , Zou Yi Ming
Published: November 2015

Castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) is the main challenge for prostate cancer treatment. Recent studies have indicated that extending the treatments to simultaneously targeting different pathways could provide better approaches. To better understand the regulatory functions of different pathways, a system-wide study of CRPC regulation is necessary. For this purpose, we constructed a comprehensive CRPC regulatory network by integrating multiple pathways such as the MEK/ERK and the PI3K/AKT pathways. We studied the feedback loops of this network and found that AKT was involved in all detected negative feedback loops. We translated the network into a predictive Boolean model and analyzed the stable states and the control effects of genes using novel methods. We found that the stable states naturally divide into two obvious groups characterizing PC3 and DU145 cells respectively. Stable state analysis further revealed that several critical genes, such as PTEN, AKT, RAF and CDKN2A, had distinct expression behaviors in different clusters. Our model predicted the control effects of many genes. We used several public datasets as well as FHL2 overexpression to verify our finding. The results of this study can help in identifying potential therapeutic targets, especially simultaneous targets of multiple pathways, for CRPC.
Synthesis of dopamine-mediated Cu nanoclusters for sensing and fluorescent coding
Authors: Wang Lan , Miao Hong , Zhong Dan , Yang Xiaoming
Published: November 2015

A novel method for synthesizing fluorescent, cyan emitting Cu nanoclusters (CuNCs) has been successfully established in aqueous solution. Moreover, the as-synthesized CuNCs were employed for assaying TC accompanied by a satisfactory detection limit and linear range. Additionally, this type of CuNC was further applied for fluorescent painting and coding.
An aptasensor based on fluorescence resonance energy transfer for multiplexed pathogenic bacteria determination
Authors: Duan Nuo , Gong Wenhui , Wang Zhouping , Wu Shijia
Published: November 2015

A multiplexed FRET-based aptasensor was developed for simultaneous bacteria detection using multicolor dyes as donors and CNPs as the sole acceptor.
Grape seed procyanidin B2 protects podocytes from high glucose-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis via the AMPK-SIRT1-PGC-1α axis in vitro
Authors: Cai Xiaxia , Bao Lei , Ren Jinwei , Li Yong , Zhang Zhaofeng
Published: November 2015

Grape seed procyanidin B2 (GSPB2) was reported to have protective effects on diabetic nephropathy (DN) as a strong antioxidant.
Dietary docosahexaenoic acid-enriched glycerophospholipids exert cardioprotective effects in ouabain-treated rats via physiological and metabolic changes
Authors: Bernard Monique , Maixent Jean-Michel , Gerbi Alain , Lan Carole , Cozzone Patrick Jean , Pieroni Gérard , Armand Martine , Coste Thierry Charles
Published: November 2015

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) might prevent heart failure or optimise drug treatments by improving cardiac contraction.
Antiprotozoal activity of dehydroabietic acid derivatives against Leishmania donovani and Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Vahermo Mikko , Krogerus Sara , Nasereddin Abdelmajeed , Kaiser Marcel , Brun Reto , Jaffe Charles L. , Yli-Kauhaluoma Jari , Moreira Vânia M.
Published: November 2015

Dehydroabietic acid derivatives have potent antiprotozoal activity and selectivity against L. donovani and T. cruzi.
Crystal structure and modeled charge carrier mobility of benzobis(thiadiazole) derivatives
Authors: Mamada Masashi , Fujita Harunori , Kakita Kazuaki , Shima Hidetaka , Yoneda Yasuhiro , Tanaka Yasuhiro , Tokito Shizuo
Published: November 2015

Benzobis(thiadiazole) derivatives showed a large diffusion coefficient between the molecules located in the co-planar and the standard π–π stacking directions.
Water-soluble metal nanoparticles stabilized by plant polyphenols for improving the catalytic properties in oxidation of alcohols
Authors: Mao H. , Liao Y. , Ma J. , Zhao S. L. , Huo F. W.
Published: November 2015

We successfully synthesized amphiphilic platinum nanoparticle catalyst (BWT-Pt) by using black wattle tannin (BWT) as the stabilizer, which prevented the Pt nanoparticles from aggregating and leaching during the catalytic reactions. The resultant catalyst exhibited high activity and cycling stability in the oxidation of alcohols.
Towards new proton exchange membrane materials with enhanced performance via RAFT polymerization
Authors: Çelik Gökçe , Barsbay Murat , Güven Olgun
Published: November 2015

This study focuses on the synthesis of well-defined proton exchange membranes (PEM) for fuel cell applications using reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization in the radiation-induced grafting part of the overall process.
Facile solvothermal synthesis of Ag/Fe3O4 nanocomposites and their SERS applications in on-line monitoring of pesticide contaminated water
Authors: Shan Yufeng , Yang Yong , Cao Yanqin , Huang Zhengren
Published: November 2015

The dual-functional substrates of Ag/Fe3O4 exhibit excellent SERS performance, and have been successfully applied in real-time on-line monitoring of wastewater.
Viscoelastic system from mixing cetyltrimethylammonium bromide and poly(styrene-co-methacrylic acid) in aqueous solution
Authors: Zhang Lu , Ni Xinjiong , Cao Yuhua , Ma Xinyu , Cao Guangqun
Published: November 2015

A viscoelastic system was developed by forming hybrid wormlike micelles with poly(styrene-co-methacrylic acid) (P(St-co-MAA)) and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) in aqueous solution.
Terpolymer-based SIPN coating with excellent antifogging and frost-resisting properties
Authors: Zhao Jie , Meyer Anthony , Ma Li , Wang Xiaojun , Ming Weihua
Published: November 2015

A terpolymer-based semi-interpenetrating polymer network (SIPN) coating demonstrated excellent antifogging/frost-resisting property.
Proton-assisted low-temperature sintering of Cu fine particles stabilized by a proton-initiating degradable polymer
Authors: Matsubara Masaki , Yonezawa Tetsu , Minoshima Takato , Tsukamoto Hiroki , Yong Yingqiong , Ishida Yohei , Nguyen Mai Thanh , Tanaka Hiroki , Okamoto Kazuki , Osaka Takuya
Published: November 2015

We demonstrate the novel proton-assisted low-temperature sintering of the polymer-stabilized Cu particles, resulting in electro-conductive pellets and films.
Chlojapolactone A, an unprecedented 1,3-dioxolane linked-lindenane sesquiterpenoid dimer from Chloranthus japonicus
Authors: Guo Yan-Qiong , Tang Gui-Hua , Li Zhen-Zhen , Lin Shu-Ling , Yin Sheng
Published: November 2015

Chlojapolactone A (1), a novel lindenane sesquiterpenoid dimer with an unprecedented 1,3-dioxolane linkage, was isolated from Chloranthus japonicus.
Thermo-chemical modification to produce citric acid–yeast superabsorbent composites for ketoprofen delivery
Authors: Feng Diejing , Bai Bo , Wang Honglun , Suo Yourui
Published: November 2015

The native yeast microbes were used to prepare a novel eco-friendly superabsorbent composite through thermo-chemical modification of yeast with citric acid in semi-dry conditions for ketoprofen delivery.
Decoration of Pt on Cu/Co double-doped CeO2 nanospheres and their greatly enhanced catalytic activity
Authors: Wang Fan , Li Wang , Feng Xilan , Liu Dapeng , Zhang Yu
Published: November 2015

In this paper, we report an efficient strategy for the synthesis of Cu/Co double-doped CeO2 nanospheres (CuxCo1−x–CeO2–Pt, 0 ≤ x ≤ 1), which were fabricated via a simple water–glycol system.
Controllable one step copper coating on carbon nanofibers for flexible cholesterol biosensor substrates
Authors: Bajaj Bharat , Joh Han I. , Jo Seong M. , Kaur Gurpreet , Sharma Anjali , Tomar Monika , Gupta Vinay , Lee Sungho
Published: November 2015

Electrospun carbon nanofibers (CNFs) decorated with copper oxide nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using a one step and modified hydroxyl ion assisted alcohol reduction method.
The structures and magnetic properties of FexCo1−xSb2O4 and MnxCo1−xSb2O4, 0 ≤ x ≤ 1
Authors: Cumby James , de Laune Benjamin P. , Greaves Colin
Published: November 2015

MxCo1−xSb2O4 (M = Mn, Fe) shows rotation of magnetic moments within the structure, tuneable with increasing x.
Snap buckling of a confined thin elastic sheet
Authors: Napoli G. , Turzi S.
Published: November 2015

A growing or compressed thin elastic sheet adhered to a rigid substrate can exhibit a buckling instability, forming an inward hump. Our study shows that the strip morphology depends on the delicate balance between the compression energy and the bending energy. We find that this instability is a first-order phase transition between the adhered solution and the buckled solution whose main control parameter is related to the sheet stretchability. In the nearly unstretchable regime, we provide an analytic expression for the critical threshold. Compressibility is the key assumption which allows us to resolve the apparent paradox of an unbounded pressure exerted on the external wall by a confined flexible loop.
Corona charge regulation in nanoparticle electrophoresis
Authors: Hill Reghan J.
Published: November 2015

Nanoparticle (NP) size and charge play key roles in bioconjugation chemistry, imaging and drug delivery. Although the electrophoretic mobility and hydrodynamic size are routinely measured, interpreting these data can be extremely difficult. Here, the challenge is addressed via an electrokinetic model for spheres bearing a soft amphoteric corona, the charge of which is regulated by a multi-component electrolyte. The model is applied to NPs with a metallic core to which are grafted poly(ethylene glycol) chains with either weak acid or amphiprotic end groups. The results elucidate the separate roles of electrolyte pH and ionic strength on the electrophoretic mobility and diffusion coefficient. In this study, the forces were evaluated directly, rather than from the Stokeslet velocity disturbances. While the second-order convergence was demonstrated by both methods, the direct approach, which uses only the inner part of the global solution, furnished superior accuracy and robustness. This may benefit future attempts to model the dielectric and electroacoustic properties of these complex nanoparticulates.
Sum-of-squares of polynomials approach to nonlinear stability of fluid flows: an example of application
Authors: Huang D. , Chernyshenko S. , Goulart P. , Lasagna D. , Tutty O. , Fuentes F.
Published: November 2015

With the goal of providing the first example of application of a recently proposed method, thus demonstrating its ability to give results in principle, global stability of a version of the rotating Couette flow is examined. The flow depends on the Reynolds number and a parameter characterizing the magnitude of the Coriolis force. By converting the original Navier–Stokes equations to a finite-dimensional uncertain dynamical system using a partial Galerkin expansion, high-degree polynomial Lyapunov functionals were found by sum-of-squares of polynomials optimization. It is demonstrated that the proposed method allows obtaining the exact global stability limit for this flow in a range of values of the parameter characterizing the Coriolis force. Outside this range a lower bound for the global stability limit was obtained, which is still better than the energy stability limit. In the course of the study, several results meaningful in the context of the method used were also obtained. Overall, the results obtained demonstrate the applicability of the recently proposed approach to global stability of the fluid flows. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first case in which global stability of a fluid flow has been proved by a generic method for the value of a Reynolds number greater than that which could be achieved with the energy stability approach.
When the going gets tough: behavioural type-dependent space use in the sleepy lizard changes as the season dries
Authors: Spiegel Orr , Leu Stephan T. , Sih Andrew , Godfrey Stephanie S. , Bull C. Michael
Published: November 2015

Understanding space use remains a major challenge for animal ecology, with implications for species interactions, disease spread, and conservation. Behavioural type (BT) may shape the space use of individuals within animal populations. Bolder or more aggressive individuals tend to be more exploratory and disperse further. Yet, to date we have limited knowledge on how space use other than dispersal depends on BT. To address this question we studied BT-dependent space-use patterns of sleepy lizards (Tiliqua rugosa) in southern Australia. We combined high-resolution global positioning system (GPS) tracking of 72 free-ranging lizards with repeated behavioural assays, and with a survey of the spatial distributions of their food and refuge resources. Bayesian generalized linear mixed models (GLMM) showed that lizards responded to the spatial distribution of resources at the neighbourhood scale and to the intensity of space use by other conspecifics (showing apparent conspecific avoidance). BT (especially aggressiveness) affected space use by lizards and their response to ecological and social factors, in a seasonally dependent manner. Many of these effects and interactions were stronger later in the season when food became scarce and environmental conditions got tougher. For example, refuge and food availability became more important later in the season and unaggressive lizards were more responsive to these predictors. These findings highlight a commonly overlooked source of heterogeneity in animal space use and improve our mechanistic understanding of processes leading to behaviourally driven disease dynamics and social structure.
Perinatal and juvenile social environments interact to shape cognitive behaviour and neural phenotype in prairie voles
Authors: Prounis George S. , Foley Lauren , Rehman Asad , Ophir Alexander G.
Published: November 2015

Social environments experienced at different developmental stages profoundly shape adult behavioural and neural phenotypes, and may have important interactive effects. We asked if social experience before and after weaning influenced adult social cognition in male prairie voles. Animals were raised either with or without fathers and then either housed singly or in sibling pairs. Males that were socially deprived before (fatherless) and after (singly housed) weaning did not demonstrate social recognition or dissociate spatial from social information. We also examined oxytocin and vasopressin receptors (OTR and V1aR) in areas of the forebrain associated with social behaviour and memory. Pre- and post-wean experience differentially altered receptor expression in several structures. Of note, OTR in the lateral septum—an area in which oxytocin inhibits social recognition—was greatest in animals that did not clearly demonstrate social recognition. The combination of absentee fathers on V1aR in the retrosplenial cortex and single housing on OTR in the septohippocampal nucleus produced a unique phenotype previously found to be associated with poor reproductive success in nature. We demonstrate that interactive effects of early life experiences throughout development have tremendous influence over brain–behaviour phenotype and can buffer potentially negative outcomes due to social deprivation.
Introduction and establishment of fluoroquinolone-resistant Shigella sonnei into Bhutan
Authors: Chung The Hao , Rabaa Maia A. , Thanh Duy Pham , Ruekit Sirigade , Wangchuk Sonam , Dorji Tshering , Tshering Kinzang Pem , Nguyen To Nguyen Thi , Vinh Phat Voong , Thanh Tuyen Ha , Minh Chau Nguyen Ngoc , Turner Paul , Sar Poda , Thwaites Guy , Holt Kathryn E. , Thomson Nicholas R. , Bodhidatta Ladaporn , Jeffries Mason Carl , Baker Stephen
Published: November 2015

Shigella sonnei is a major contributor to the global burden of diarrhoeal disease, generally associated with dysenteric diarrhoea in developed countries but also emerging in developing countries. The reason for the recent success of S. sonnei is unknown, but is likely catalysed by its ability to acquire resistance against multiple antimicrobials. Between 2011 and 2013, S. sonnei exhibiting resistance to fluoroquinolones, the first-line treatment recommended for shigellosis, emerged in Bhutan. Aiming to reconstruct the introduction and establishment of fluoroquinolone-resistant S. sonnei populations in Bhutan, we performed whole-genome sequencing on 71 S. sonnei samples isolated in Bhutan between 2011 and 2013.We found that these strains represented an expansion of a clade within the previously described lineage III, found specifically in Central Asia. Temporal phylogenetic reconstruction demonstrated that all of the sequenced Bhutanese S. sonnei diverged from a single ancestor that was introduced into Bhutan around 2006. Our data additionally predicted that fluoroquinolone resistance, conferred by mutations in gyrA and parC, arose prior to the introduction of the founder strain into Bhutan. Once established in Bhutan, these S. sonnei had access to a broad gene pool, as indicated by the acquisition of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-encoding plasmids and genes encoding type IV pili. The data presented here outline a model for the introduction and maintenance of fluoroquinolone-resistant S. sonnei in a new setting. Given the current circulation of fluoroquinolone-resistant S. sonnei in Asia, we speculate that this pattern of introduction is being recapitulated across the region and beyond.
A structural view of the dissociation ofEscherichia colitryptophanase
Authors: Green Keren , Qasim Nasrin , Gdaelvsky Garik , Kogan Anna , Goldgur Yehuda , Parola Abraham H. , Lotan Ofra , Almog Orna
Published: November 2015

Tryptophanase (Trpase) is a pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (PLP)-dependent homotetrameric enzyme which catalyzes the degradation of L-tryptophan. Trpase is also known for its cold lability, which is a reversible loss of activity at low temperature (2°C) that is associated with the dissociation of the tetramer.Escherichia coliTrpase dissociates into dimers, whileProteus vulgarisTrpase dissociates into monomers. As such, this enzyme is an appropriate model to study the protein–protein interactions and quaternary structure of proteins. The aim of the present study was to understand the differences in the mode of dissociation between theE. coliandP. vulgarisTrpases. In particular, the effect of mutations along the molecular axes of homotetrameric Trpase on its dissociation was studied. To answer this question, two groups of mutants of theE. colienzyme were created to resemble the amino-acid sequence ofP. vulgarisTrpase. In one group, residues 15 and 59 that are located along the molecular axisR(also termed the noncatalytic axis) were mutated. The second group included a mutation at position 298, located along the molecular axisQ(also termed the catalytic axis). Replacing amino-acid residues along theRaxis resulted in dissociation of the tetramers into monomers, similar to theP. vulgarisTrpase, while replacing amino-acid residues along theQaxis resulted in dissociation into dimers only. The crystal structure of the V59M mutant ofE. coliTrpase was also determined in its apo form and was found to be similar to that of the wild type. This study suggests that inE. coliTrpase hydrophobic interactions along theRaxis hold the two monomers together more strongly, preventing the dissociation of the dimers into monomers. Mutation of position 298 along theQaxis to a charged residue resulted in tetramers that are less susceptible to dissociation. Thus, the results indicate that dissociation ofE. coliTrpase into dimers occurs along the molecularQaxis.
Novel one- and two-dimensional ZnIIcoordination polymers based on a versatile 3,6-bis(pyridin-4-yl)phenanthrene-9,10-dione ligand
Authors: Jin Guoxia , Wang Jia , Wu Qidi , Han Zheng , Ma Jianping
Published: November 2015

Two new ZnIIcoordination polymers, namely,catena-poly[[dibromidozinc(II)]-μ-[3,6-bis(pyridin-4-yl)phenanthrene-9,10-dione-κ2N:N′]], [ZnBr2(C24H14N2O2)]n, (1), and poly[[bromido[μ3-10-hydroxy-3,6-bis(pyridin-4-yl)phenanthren-9-olato-κ3N:N′:O9]zinc(II)] hemihydrate], {[ZnBr(C24H15N2O2)]·0.5H2O}n, (2), have been synthesized through hydrothermal reaction of ZnBr2and a 60° angular phenanthrenedione-based linker,i.e.3,6-bis(pyridin-4-yl)phenanthrene-9,10-dione, in different solvent systems. Single-crystal analysis reveals that polymer (1) features one-dimensional zigzag chains connected by weak C—H...π and π–π interactions to form a two-dimensional network. The two-dimensional networks are further stacked in anABABfashion along theaaxis through C—H...O hydrogen bonds. LayersAandBcomprise left- and right-handed helical chains, respectively. Coordination polymer (2) displays a wave-like two-dimensional layered structure with helical chains. In this compound, there are two opposite helical –Zn–HL– chains [HLis 10-hydroxy-3,6-bis(pyridin-4-yl)phenanthren-9-olate] in adjacent layers. The layers are packed in anABABsequence and are further connected through O—H...Br and O—H...O hydrogen-bond interactions to form a three-dimensional framework. In (1) and (2), the mutidentateLand HLligands exhibits different coordination modes.
Best‐practice pain management in the emergency department: A cluster‐randomised, controlled, intervention trial
Authors: Taylor David McD , Fatovich Daniel M , Finucci Daniel P , Furyk Jeremy , Jin Sang‐won , Keijzers Gerben , Macdonald Stephen PJ , Mitenko Hugh MA , Richardson Joanna R , Ting Joseph YS , Thom Ogilvie N , Ugoni Antony M , Hughes James A , Bost Nerolie , Ward Meagan L , Gibbs Clinton R , Macdonald Ellen , Chalkley Dane R
Published: November 2015

Objectives

We aimed to provide ‘adequate analgesia’ (which decreases the pain score by ≥2 and to <4 [0–10 scale]) and determine the effect on patient satisfaction.

Methods

We undertook a multicentre, cluster‐randomised, controlled, intervention trial in nine EDs. Patients with moderate pain (pain score of ≥4) were eligible for inclusion. The intervention was a range of educational activities to encourage staff to provide ‘adequate analgesia’. It was introduced into five early intervention EDs between the 0 and 6 months time points and at four late intervention EDs between 3 and 6 months. At 0, 3 and 6 months, data were collected on demographics, pain scores, analgesia provided and pain management satisfaction 48 h post‐discharge (6 point scale).

Results

Overall, 1317 patients were enrolled. Logistic regression (controlling for site and other confounders) indicated that, between 0 and 3 months, satisfaction increased significantly at the early intervention EDs (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.5 to 3.4 [P < 0.01]) but was stable at the control EDs (OR 0.8, 95% CI 0.5 to 1.3 [P = 0.35]). Pooling of data from all sites indicated that the proportion of patients very satisfied with their pain management increased from 42.9% immediately pre‐intervention to 53.9% after 3 months of intervention (difference in proportions 11.0%, 95% CI 4.2 to 17.8 [P = 0.001]). Logistic regression of all data indicated that ‘adequate analgesia’ was significantly associated with patient satisfaction (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.1 to 1.8 [P < 0.01]).

Conclusions

The ‘adequate analgesia’ intervention significantly improved patient satisfaction. It provides a simple and efficient target in the pursuit of best‐practice ED pain management.
Vocal cord paralysis and tracheal rupture secondary to thyroid abscess
Authors: Lee Dong Hoon , Yoon Tae Mi , Lee Joon Kyoo , Lim Sang Chul
Published: November 2015

Vocal cord paralysis involving tracheal rupture secondary to thyroid abscess is extremely rare. We report a case of a patient with a thyroid abscess that eventually led to vocal cord paralysis, tracheal rupture and mediastinitis, and the patient consequently died. When a patient develops hoarseness, fever and neck pain, the clinician should examine the larynx and neck to consider the possibility of vocal cord paralysis secondary to thyroid abscess in the differential diagnosis. If thyroid abscess is diagnosed, early initiation of intravenous antibiotics and prompt surgical drainage are essential to minimize severe complications.
Does income inequality increase charitable giving?
Authors: Payne A. Abigail , Smith Justin
Published: November 2015

Do households react to changes in the distribution of income in their localities by changing their charitable giving? The theoretical prediction of the effects of income inequality on giving is unclear. We study how changes in income inequality measured at the neighbourhood and municipality levels affect charitable giving by households in Canada between 1991 and 2006. We find that increases in inequality increase giving. Results are sensitive to the geographic dispersion of low‐ and high‐income households in neighbourhoods within a municipality. The effect on donations is smaller in areas with high levels of inequality at both neighbourhood and municipality levels.
Long‐term outcomes of Murray Valley encephalitis cases in Western Australia: what have we learnt?
Authors: Selvey L. A. , Speers D. J. , Smith D. W.
Published: November 2015

Background

Murray Valley encephalitis virus (MVEV) is a mosquito‐borne flavivirus that causes encephalitis in some cases of infection. It is endemic in Northern Australia and cases occasionally occur in South Eastern Australia. The long‐term sequelae of MVEV infection have not previously been well described.

Aim

To investigate the long‐term sequelae of MVEV infection.

Methods

This was a descriptive case series of all clinical MVEV infections using data linkage and standard surveys. Hospital admissions, emergency department, psychiatric outpatients and mortality data were obtained. We attempted to follow‐up all 53 cases of MVEV clinical infection that occurred in Western Australia from 1978 to 2011 inclusive. Two cases opted out of the study.

Results

We followed‐up 39 surviving cases. Seven of the nine with paralysis or paresis were under 5 years and they fared worse than other patients, requiring lengthy hospitalisation (median duration 133 days). Two died due to complications of quadriplegia following a total of 691 days in hospital. Nine surviving patients, including two with non‐encephalitic illness, required care for depression and other psychiatric conditions following MVEV infection. Two patients who were discharged with neurological sequelae had no further documented hospital occasions of service but reported ongoing challenges with cognitive dysfunction and inability to work.

Conclusions

This is the first study of long‐term outcomes of Murray Valley encephalitis that included cases with no obvious sequelae at discharge. In spite of the small numbers involved, the study demonstrated the significant medical and social burden due to MVEV in Australia.
The Luxury Paradox: How Systems Thinking and Supply Chain Collaboration Can Bring Sustainability Into Mainstream Practice
Authors: Waller Matthew A. , Fawcett Stanley E. , Johnson Jonathan L.
Published: November 2015

It is not hard to imagine sustainability behaviors that could be labeled as “luxury,” but for many sustainability efforts this might not be descriptive. Systems thinking is at the core of the total cost concept of logistics and this is where there is often lots of overlap and opportunity for logistics and sustainability initiatives. Some companies are now sharing reliable product level information and performance indicators that are crucial to successful logistics as an outcome of collaboration on sustainability initiatives. In some cases, various sustainability performance metrics can serve as proxy measures or leading indicators for logistics costs and service measures. They can also serve as a point of collaboration for multiple firms in the supply chain.
Refining prognosis after trans‐arterial chemo‐embolization for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Cappelli Alberta , Cucchetti Alessandro , Cabibbo Giuseppe , Mosconi Cristina , Maida Marcello , Attardo Simona , Pettinari Irene , Pinna Antonio D. , Golfieri Rita
Published: November 2015

Background & Aims

To develop an individual prognostic calculator for patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) undergoing trans‐arterial chemo‐embolization (TACE).

Methods

Data from two prospective databases, regarding 361 patients who received TACE as first‐line therapy (2000–2012), were reviewed in order to refine available prognostic tools and to develop a continuous individual web‐based prognostic calculator. Patients with neoplastic portal vein invasion were excluded from the analysis. The model was built following a bootstrap resampling procedure aimed at identifying prognostic predictors and by carrying out a 10‐fold cross‐validation for accuracy assessment by means of Harrell's c‐statistic.

Results

Number of tumours, serum albumin, serum total bilirubin, alpha‐foetoprotein and maximum tumour size were selected as predictors of mortality following TACE with the bootstrap resampling technique. In the 10‐fold cross‐validation cohort, the model showed a Harrell's c‐statistic of 0.649 (95% CI: 0.610–0.688), significantly higher than that of the Hepatoma Arterial‐embolization Prognostic (HAP) score (0.589; 95% CI: 0.552–0.626; P = 0.001) and of the modified HAP‐II score (0.611; 95% CI: 0.572–0.650; P = 0.005). Akaike's information criterion for the model was 2520; for the mHAP‐II it was 2544 and for the HAP score it was 2554. A web‐based calculator was developed for quick consultation at http://www.livercancer.eu/mhap3.html.

Conclusions

The proposed individual prognostic model can provide an accurate prognostic prediction for each patient with unresectable HCC following treatment with TACE without class stratification. The availability of an online calculator can help physicians in daily clinical practice.
Lysosomal membrane permeabilization in cell death: new evidence and implications for health and disease
Authors: Serrano‐Puebla Ana , Boya Patricia
Published: November 2015

Recent studies have demonstrated that, in addition to their central role in cellular catabolic reactions, lysosomes are implicated in many cellular processes, including metabolism, membrane repair, and cell death. Lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP) has emerged as a pathway by which cell demise is regulated under physiological conditions and contributes to cell death in many pathological situations. Here, we review the latest evidence on LMP‐mediated cell death, the upstream and downstream signals involved, and the role of LMP in the normal physiology of organisms. We also discuss the contributions of lysosomal damage and LMP to the pathogenic features of several disease states, such as lysosomal storage disorders and other neurodegenerative conditions.
The effect of dietary modulation of sulfur amino acids on cystathionine β synthase–deficient mice
Authors: Kruger Warren D. , Gupta Sapna
Published: November 2015

Cystathionine β synthase (CBS) is a key enzyme in the methionine and cysteine metabolic pathway, acting as a metabolic gatekeeper to regulate the flow of fixed sulfur from methionine to cysteine. Mutations in the CBS gene cause clinical CBS deficiency, a disease characterized by elevated plasma total homocysteine (tHcy) and methionine and decreased plasma cysteine. The treatment goal for CBS‐deficient patients is to normalize the metabolic values of these three metabolites using a combination of vitamin therapy and dietary manipulation. To better understand the effectiveness of nutritional treatment strategies, we have performed a series of long‐term dietary manipulation studies using our previously developedTg‐I278T Cbs–/–mouse model of CBS deficiency and siblingTg‐I278T Cbs+/–controls.Tg‐I278T Cbs–/–mice have undetectable levels of CBS activity, extremely elevated plasma tHcy, modestly elevated plasma methionine, and low plasma cysteine. They exhibit several easily assayable phenotypes, including osteoporosis, loss of fat mass, reduced life span, and facial alopecia. The diets used in these studies differed in the amounts of sulfur amino acids or sulfur amino acid precursors. In this review, we will discuss our findings and their relevance to CBS deficiency and the concept of gene–diet interaction.
Human lactoferrin protects against Streptococcus mutans‐induced caries in mice
Authors: Velusamy SK , Markowitz K , Fine DH , Velliyagounder K
Published: November 2015

Objectives

The objective of this study is to evaluate the importance of human lactoferrin (hLF) in an experimental caries induced by Streptococcus mutans in a lactoferrin‐knockout (LFKO−/−) mouse model compared with C576J/BL wild‐type (WT) mice.

Materials and Methods

The WT and LFKO−/− mice were infected with S. mutans (1 × 108 cells) and/or sham infection. Furthermore, the effect of hLF administration was evaluated in LFKO−/− mice infected with S. mutans. Mice were assessed for colonization, salivary pH, and caries development.

Results

The results showed that the lactoferrin‐knockout infected (LFKO−/−I) mice had significantly higher colonization with S. mutans (P = 0.02), lower salivary pH (P = 0.01), and more carious lesions (P = 0.01) when compared to wild‐type infected (WTI) mice. In addition, the administration of hLF did not show any evidence of S. mutans colonization as well as carious lesions (P = 0.001) in LFKO−/−I mice when compared to untreated LFKO−/−I mice.

Conclusion

These results show that endogenous LF protects against S. mutans‐induced caries and that exogenous hLF can exert a protective effect against caries development.
Advances, practice, and clinical perspectives in high‐throughput sequencing
Authors: Park S‐J , Saito‐Adachi M , Komiyama Y , Nakai K
Published: November 2015

Remarkable advances in high‐throughput sequencing technologies have fundamentally changed our understanding of the genetic and epigenetic molecular bases underlying human health and diseases. As these technologies continue to revolutionize molecular biology leading to fresh perspectives, it is imperative to thoroughly consider the enormous excitement surrounding the technologies by highlighting the characteristics of platforms and their global trends as well as potential benefits and limitations. To date, with a variety of platforms, the technologies provide an impressive range of applications, including sequencing of whole genomes and transcriptomes, identifying of genome modifications, and profiling of protein interactions. Because these applications produce a flood of data, simultaneous development of bioinformatics tools is required to efficiently deal with the big data and to comprehensively analyze them. This review covers the major achievements and performances of the high‐throughput sequencing and further summarizes the characteristics of their applications along with introducing applicable bioinformatics tools. Moreover, a step‐by‐step procedure for a practical transcriptome analysis is described employing an analytical pipeline. Clinical perspectives with special consideration to human oral health and diseases are also covered.
ACOUSTICAL STANDARDS NEWS
Authors: Blaeser Susan B. , Struck Christopher J.
Published: November 2015

American National Standards (ANSI Standards) developed by Accredited Standards Committees S1, S2, S3, S3/SC 1, and S12 in the areas of acoustics, mechanical vibration and shock, bioacoustics, animal bioacoustics, and noise, respectively, are published by the Acoustical Society of America (ASA). In addition to these standards, ASA publishes a catalog of Acoustical American National Standards. To receive a copy of the latest Standards catalog, please contact Susan B. Blaeser.

Comments are welcomed on all material in Acoustical Standards News.

This Acoustical Standards News section in JASA, as well as the National Catalog of Acoustical Standards and other information on the Standards Program of the Acoustical Society of America, are available via the ASA home page: http://acousticalsociety.org.
JTPE: A 30-Year Retrospective of Published Research
Authors: Rhoades Jesse L. , Woods Amelia Mays , Daum David Newman , Ellison Douglas , Trendowski Thomas N.
Published: November 2015

This case study presents an examination of 30 years of Journal of Teaching in Physical Education (JTPE) research. The purpose of this study was to provide a retrospective view of JTPE and its contribution to the field of physical education. In this effort the current study employed citation analysis, coauthor network analyses and thematic coding based phylogenic analysis. Data were collected through an online repository of JTPE articles and through google scholar examination of citation counts. Results indicated that JTPE has undergone subtle changes during the course of its existence. Further, thematic analysis revealed that the topical content of the journal has remained consistent over the course of its operation.
Student Perceptions of Instructional Choices in Middle School Physical Education
Authors: Agbuga Bulent , Xiang Ping , McBride Ron E. , Su Xiaoxia
Published: November 2015

Purpose:

Framed within self-determination theory, this study examined relationships among perceived instructional choices (cognitive, organizational, and procedural), autonomy need satisfaction, and engagement (behavioral, cognitive, and emotional) among Turkish students in middle school physical education.

Methods:

Participants consisted of 246 (124 boys, 122 girls) middle school students enrolled in physical education classes at four public schools in the west Turkey. Questionnaires were used to collect the data.

Results:

Perceived cognitive, organizational and procedural choices were found all important to students’ autonomy need satisfaction and/or engagement. Autonomy need satisfaction fully or partially mediated the relationships between perceived instructional choices and engagement.

Discussion/Conclusion:

The study provides empirical data that instructional choices supported student autonomy need satisfaction, and were related to student engagement in middle school physical education.
Trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1) renders HER2
+
breast cancer highly susceptible to CTLA-4/PD-1 blockade
Authors: Müller Philipp , Kreuzaler Matthias , Khan Tarik , Thommen Daniela S. , Martin Kea , Glatz Katharina , Savic Spasenija , Harbeck Nadia , Nitz Ulrike , Gluz Oleg , von Bergwelt-Baildon Michael , Kreipe Hans , Reddy Sai , Christgen Matthias , Zippelius Alfred
Published: November 2015

An antibody-drug conjugate overcomes resistance to immune checkpoint blockade in HER2-positive breast cancer.