bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Graphical tuning method of FOPID controllers for fractional order uncertain system achieving robust ‐stability
Authors: Zheng Shiqi , Tang Xiaoqi , Song Bao
Published: May 2015

This paper focuses on the graphical tuning method of fractional order proportional integral derivative (FOPID) controllers for fractional order uncertain system achieving robust
‐stability. Firstly, general result is presented to check the robust
‐stability of the linear fractional order interval polynomial. Then some alternative algorithms and results are proposed to reduce the computational effort of the general result. Secondly, a general graphical tuning method together with some computational efficient algorithms are proposed to determine the complete set of FOPID controllers that provides
‐stability for interval fractional order plant. These methods will combine the results for fractional order parametric robust control with the method of FOPID
‐stabilization for a fixed plant. At last, two important extensions will be given to the proposed graphical tuning methods: determine the
‐stabilizing region for fractional order systems with two kinds of more general and complex uncertainty structures: multi‐linear interval uncertainty and mixed‐type uncertainties. Numerical examples are followed to illustrate the effectiveness of the method. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intonational meaning
Authors: Prieto Pilar
Published: May 2015

Traditionally, prosodic studies have focused on the study of intonational form and the study of intonational meaning has been relatively neglected. Similarly, the fields of semantics and pragmatics have paid little attention to the pragmatic uses of intonation. As a result, there is no firm agreement within the linguistic community on how to integrate the analysis of intonational meaning across languages into a unified prosodic, semantic, and pragmatic approach. This article provides an overview of the literature on intonational meaning, describing the recent advances made in the fields of prosody, semantics/pragmatics, and syntax. Several theoretical approaches to explaining the semantics and pragmatics of intonation are presented. A common feature to most frameworks is that intonation (1) should be regarded as an integral part of linguistic grammar; and (2) typically encodes meanings related to the modal aspect of propositions. However, features such as compositionality, duality of structure, and context‐dependency are still hotly debated issues. These features will be discussed from different theoretical perspectives, and we will identify potential advances related to the full integration of intonational meaning into dynamic and multidimensional models of meaning.WIREs Cogn Sci2015, 6:371–381. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1352

This article is categorized under:

Linguistics > Linguistic Theory
Outpatient Thyroid Surgery in a Low‐Surgical Volume Hospital
Authors: Ayala Marco Antonio , Yencha Myron William
Published: May 2015

Background

To determine the safety and outcome of outpatient thyroid surgery in a small low‐surgical volume hospital. To evaluate clinical and social factors that may prohibit outpatient thyroid surgery.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of all thyroid surgery performed at a low‐surgical volume hospital from August 2006 to July 2014. One‐hundred and sixty patients underwent thyroid surgery during the study period. Electronic medical records were reviewed for all patients. Data collection included demographic information, extent of thyroid surgery, length of hospital stay, laboratory/pathology results, co‐morbidities, and complications.

Results

Of the 160 patients who underwent thyroid surgery, 109 (68.1 %) were discharged on the day of surgery. Forty‐three patients (26.9 %) were admitted for 23‐h observation and eight patients (5 %) required full admission (longer than 24 h). Sixty‐one patients (38.1 %) underwent a total thyroidectomy, while 99 patients (61.9 %) underwent a hemithyroidectomy. Complications included four temporary recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injuries (2.5 % patients/1.8 % of total RLN at risk), one permanent RLN injury (0.63 % patients/0.45 % of total RLN as risk), one temporary bilateral RLN injury (0.63 %), two delayed hematomas (1.3 %), and eight cases of transient hypocalcemia (5 %).

Conclusion

Outpatient thyroid surgery can be performed safely in a low‐surgical volume center. Reasons for a longer stay include clinical as well as social factors.
MDM4 regulation by the let‐7 miRNA family in the DNA damage response of glioma cells
Authors: Xie Chen , Chen Wei , Zhang Mengdie , Cai Qiuxian , Xu Weiyi , Li Xiaodi , Jiang Songshan
Published: May 2015

Despite extensive investigation into the role of let‐7 miRNAs in pathological tumor processes, their involvement in the DNA damage response remains unclear. Here we show that most let‐7 family members down‐regulate MDM4 expression via binding to MDM4 mRNA at a conserved DNA sequence. Expression of exogenous let‐7 miRNA mimics decreased MDM4 protein but not mRNA levels. Several DNA damage reagents increased let‐7 expression, thereby decreasing MDM4 protein levels in glioma cells. Inhibition of endogenous let‐7 with antisense RNAs rescued MDM4 protein levels with or without MG132, a proteasome‐dependent degradation inhibitor. An MDM4 mutation identified in a glioma patient was associated with loss of the putative MDM4 target site. Therefore, let‐7 binding to MDM4 is implicated in the DNA damage response.
‘You can't have them in here’: experiences of accessing medication among older men on entry to prison
Authors: SULLIVAN VICTORIA , FORSYTH KATRINA , HASSAN LAMIECE , O'HARA KATE , SENIOR JANE , SHAW JENNY
Published: May 2015

Older prisoners are the fastest growing sub-group in the English and Welsh prison estate. They have complex health needs, in spite of which there is a dearth of literature concerning their access to prescribed medication. Literature relating to younger prisoners highlights common issues around maintaining continuity of medication upon reception into prison custody. The objective of the study was to explore the lived experience of older male prisoners regarding continuity of medication upon entry into prison. This paper presents findings from part of a large-scale research project regarding health and social care services for older male adult prisoners. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with male participants (N = 27) aged 60 years and over who had been newly received into prison. Interviews were conducted within the first ten weeks of custody. Participants were asked about their experience of accessing medication on entry into prison. Data were analysed using the constant comparison method. Eighty-five per cent of participants were in receipt of prescribed medication when committed to prison. Older prisoners’ experiences of receiving medication in prison were reflected in four key themes: delays in confirming medicines; changes to medication; communication difficulties; and enforced helplessness. Whilst these experiences mirrored those of prisoners of all ages reported in previous studies, these issues are especially relevant to older prisoners who are likely to have greater and more complex medication needs than their younger peers. In addition, older prisoners experienced unmet needs related to restricted mobility and functional skills that could have impaired their ability to maintain concordance with medication regimes. This study shows that there is need for increased awareness of prescribing issues specific to older prisoners to allay related feelings of anxiety and distress and to ensure they receive appropriate medication.
A clonal outbreak of tuberculosis in a homeless population in the interior of British Columbia, Canada, 2008–2015
Authors: CHENG J. M. , HISCOE L. , POLLOCK S. L. , HASSELBACK P. , GARDY J. L. , PARKER R.
Published: May 2015

A tuberculosis (TB) case was reported May 2008 in Kelowna, British Columbia, leading to a multi-year outbreak in homeless persons. The epidemiological characteristics and social networks of cases are described. Outbreak-related cases were identified from epidemiological information in medical records and from genotyping of TB isolates. Social network information from case interviews were used to identify potential locations of TB transmission, where symptom screening and tuberculin skin testing was conducted. Fifty-two cases that were predominantly male (47/52), Canadian-born (44/50), and were homeless or associated with homeless individuals (42/52) were reported from May 2008 to May 2014. Many isolates (40/49) had partial resistance to isoniazid. Transmission primarily occurred at two homeless shelters, with potential further transmission at sites visited by the general population. TB outbreaks in homeless populations can occur in small, low-incidence cities. Social network information helped prioritize sites for TB screening, thereby improving detection of persons with TB disease or latent infection for treatment.
Metals in Human Gall, Bladder, and Kidney Stones Based on an Electron Microprobe Investigation
Authors: Moser Reinhard , Zaccarini Federica , Moser Waltraud , Schrittwieser Rudolf , Kerbl Reinhold
Published: May 2015

Several particles of copper accompanied by a few particles of nickel, lead, and a compound composed of selenium containing minor Ni, Si, Cu, and Co were found in human gall, kidney, and bladder stones. The investigated particles occur as tiny grains, <10 µm in size, that are irregularly dispersed in the stones. Therefore, they were studied by scanning electron microscopy and qualitatively analyzed by energy dispersive system. One grain of copper contained a small amount of Ni and Zn, and some grains of nickel proved to contain Cr as trace element. Most of the discovered metals formed a single-phase grain. However, a few grains found in two gallstones were associated with inclusions of calcium and apatite. Based on the results presented in this contribution, we argue that most of the studied metals can be classified as endogenous particles, i.e., directly precipitated from the same fluids that formed their host human stones. This observation suggests that the precipitation and accumulation of metals in some human stones can be considered an efficient way to eliminate them from the human body.
Inanspruchnahme suchtspezifischer Hilfen von Alkoholabhängigen und -mißbrauchern: Ergebnisse der TACOS-Bevölkerungsstudie
Authors: Rumpf Hans-Jürgen , Meyer Christian , Hapke Ulfert , Bischof Gallus , John Ulrich
Published: May 2015

Ziel der Studie war die Erfassung von suchtspezifischen Hilfen für Alkoholabhängige und Alkoholmißbraucher in der Erwachsenenbevölkerung. Aus einer von den Einwohnermeldeämtern per Zufall gezogenen Stichprobe wurden 4075 Personen bei einer Ausschöpfung von 70,2% in einem persönlichen Interview befragt. Die Diagnosen Alkoholabhängigkeit und Alkoholmißbrauch nach DSM-IV wurden mit Hilfe des M-CIDI erhoben. Mit standardisierten Fragen wurden Inanspruchnahme suchtspezifischer Hilfen sowie Gründe für die Nicht-Inanspruchnahme von Hilfen erfragt. Bei Alkoholmißbrauchern ergaben sich sehr geringe Inanspruchnahmeraten, am häufigsten genannt wurde mit 5,4% die Beratung durch einen Arzt. Personen, die im Verlauf ihres Lebens eine Alkoholabhängigkeit gehabt haben, zeigten zu 59,5% keinerlei Kontakt zu suchtspezifischen Hilfen, bei 13,7% lagen geringfügige Kontakte und bei 26,8% weitergehende Hilfen vor. Mit 92,7% hatte ein großer Anteil Alkoholabhängiger mindestens einmal im letzten Jahr Kontakt zu Einrichtungen der medizinischen Versorgung, was für sekundärpräventive Maßnahmen in diesen Bereichen spricht.
Die OCDS-G: Psychometrische Kennwerte der deutschen Version der Obsessive Compulsive Drinking Scale
Authors: Mann Karl , Ackermann Klaus
Published: May 2015

Der psychometrischen Erfassung subjektiv empfundenen Alkoholverlangens kommt möglicherweise eine wichtige Rolle bei der Einschätzung der Rückfallgefährdung und bei der Überprüfung von Maßnahmen zur Rückfallprophylaxe zu. Die Obsessive Compulsive Drinking Scale (OCDS wurde von Anton et al. (1995, 1996) als 14-Item Kurzfragebogen zur Einschätzung des Alkoholverlangens vorgestellt. In der vorliegenden Untersuchung wird eine von uns erstellte und im Anhang wiedergegebene deutschsprachige Form dieses Bogens in einer Stichprobe von 206 alkoholabhängigen Patienten untersucht und bezüglich ihrer psychometrischen Kennwerte mit der angloamerikanischen Fassung verglichen. Die beiden für die Originalversion angegebenen Subscores »Obsessions« und »Compulsions« können durch eine Hauptkomponentenanalyse grundsätzlich bestätigt werden, liefern im Vergleich zur Gesamtskala jedoch kaum Zusatzinformation. Es resultieren angemessene Trennschärfekoeffizienten und gute bis sehr gute Cronbach-α Konsistenzen, die für die Subscores bei 0,87 und 0,79, für den Gesamtscore bei 0,90 liegen. Die Test-Retest-Reliabilität liegt ebenfalls bei 0,90. Substantielle Korrelationen bestehen mit der Einschätzung des Alkoholverlangens auf visuellen Analogskalen (von 0,54 bis 0,67) sowie mit der Zahl der Abstinenztage vor der stationären Aufnahme (von 0,40 bis 0,44). Die Studie zeigt, dass die OCDS-G die situationsübergreifende und summarische Selbsteinschätzung des Alkoholverlangens Alkoholabhängiger in dem gewählten Zeitfenster konsistent und reliabel erfasst. Es liegt nahe, dass sich auch die deutschsprachige Version der OCDS für Wirksamkeits- und Verlaufsstudien eignet, beispielsweise wenn sogenannte Anti-Craving-Substanzen beurteilt werden sollen.
Radikalisierung? Ein Interpretationsmodell jugendlichen Alkoholkonsums von 1986 bis 1998 in der Schweiz
Authors: Kuntsche Emmanuel N.
Published: May 2015

Fragestellung: Gesundheitssurveys stellen unabdingbare Informationsquellen für Präventionsmaßnahmen dar. Aufgrund der Fülle an Informationen in
solchen Umfragen ist es oftmals jedoch schwer, übergreifende und handlungsleitende Tendenzen zu entnehmen. Ausgehend von Annahmen zu abnehmenden Geschlechterdifferenzen und einem veränderten Einstiegsalter in Bezug auf regelmäßigen Alkoholkonsum versucht die vorliegende Studie ein Interpretationsmodell zu entwickeln.
Methodik: Die Daten stammen aus dem schweizerischen Teil des internationalen
Projekts »Health Behaviour in School-Aged Children (HBSC)«, in welchem 17.142 Schulkinder im Alter von 11, 13 und 15 Jahren von 1986 bis 1998 alle vier Jahre in der Schweiz national repräsentativ befragt wurden.
Ergebnisse: Es zeigt sich, dass der
Anteil regelmäßig Alkoholkonsumierender unter Jüngeren leicht abgenommen hat, während er bei 15-Jährigen stark gestiegen ist. Analog hat sich der Anteil wiederholt betrunken Gewesener unter älteren Schulkindern drastisch erhöht.
Schlussfolgerungen: Aufgrund der Ergebnisse lässt sich von einer Radikalisierung jugendlichen Alkoholkonsums sprechen, deren präventive Implikationen abschließend
erörtert werden.
Repräsentativerhebung zum Gebrauch psychoaktiver Substanzen bei Erwachsenen in Deutschland 2000
Authors: Kraus Ludwig , Augustin Rita
Published: May 2015

Wie viele Bundesbürger konsumieren welche psychoaktiven Substanzen, welche Mengen konsumieren sie, wie häufig ist dies der Fall und welche Folgen hat dies? Der Bericht bietet
Detailinformationen zum Gebrauch von Alkohol, Nikotin, Cannabis und anderen illegalen Drogen, schließlich auch psychotropen Medikamenten: Aufgeschlüsselt nach Altersgruppen,
Geschlecht und Ost- und Westzugehörigkeit werden die Anteile
von Konsumierenden und für Alkohol, Nikotin und Cannabis auch die erfragten Konsummengen dargestellt.
Sind Frauen von Männern mit Alkoholproblemen besonders partnerzentriert?
Authors: Galliker Mark , Grivel Madeleine , Klein Margot , Schendera Christian
Published: May 2015

Ziel: Zur Überprüfung des Geltungsbereichs des ursprünglich für den Alkoholbereich entwickelten Konzeptes der Co-Abhängigkeit wird die begrifflich präziser gefasste Partnerzentriertheit untersucht.

Stichprobe: Die in der Untersuchung berücksichtigten Frauen werden per Zufallsauswahl dem Telefonbuch der Stadt Zürich entnommen (N=160).

Design: Folgende Gruppen werden miteinander verglichen: Frauen in Partnerschaften mit/ohne Alkoholproblemen; mit/ohne Erwerbstätigkeit; mit/ohne Kinder.

Ergebnisse: Frauen von alkoholabhängigen Partnern distanzieren sich zwar häufiger verbal von ihren Partnern, sie unterscheiden sich aber von Frauen ohne alkoholabhängigen Partner nicht in ihrer Partnerzentriertheit. Hingegen erweisen sich Frauen ohne Kinder sowie Frauen, die nicht erwerbstätig sind, im Vergleich zu Frauen mit Kindern bzw. erwerbstätigen Frauen häufiger als partnerzentriert.

Schlussfolgerung: Diese Ergebnisse sprechen gegen ein rein psychologisch verstandenes Konzept der Co-Abhängigkeit, das wichtige Lebensbedingungen der Frauen unberücksichtigt lässt.
Forschung zu Sterben, Tod und Trauern
Authors: Wittkowski Joachim
Published: May 2015

Der Artikel gibt eine Übersicht über weltweite Forschungsaktivitäten im Bereich der Psychologie des Todes. Einleitend werden inhaltliche Verbindungen zwischen der Thanatopsychologie und anderen Gebieten der Psychologie aufgezeigt. Die Kennzeichnung der Association of Death Education and Counseling einerseits und der International Work Group on Death, Dying and Beravement andererseits leitet zu einer Übersicht über die internationale Publikationstätigkeit der Jahre 2000 bis 2009 in der Zeitschrift Death Studies über. Daran schließen sich wissenschaftliche Arbeitsschwerpunkte in Belgien, China/Hongkong, Griechenland, Großbritannien/UK, Israel, Kuweit/Ägypten, den Niederlanden, Norwegen sowie den Vereinigten Staaten an, und es werden kulturvergleichende Befunde zu den Einstellungen zu Sterben und Tod in Deutschland und Kongkong vorgestellt. Abschließend werden sechs Schwerpunkte der zukünftigen Entwicklung hervorgehoben.
A Mendelian randomization study of the effect of type-2 diabetes on coronary heart disease
Authors: Ahmad Omar S. , Morris John A. , Mujammami Muhammad , Forgetta Vincenzo , Leong Aaron , Li Rui , Turgeon Maxime , Greenwood Celia M.T. , Thanassoulis George , Meigs James B. , Sladek Robert , Richards J. Brent
Published: May 2015

In observational studies, type-2 diabetes (T2D) is associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease (CHD), yet interventional trials have shown no clear effect of glucose-lowering on CHD. Confounding may have therefore influenced these observational estimates. Here we use Mendelian randomization to obtain unconfounded estimates of the influence of T2D and fasting glucose (FG) on CHD risk. Using multiple genetic variants associated with T2D and FG, we find that risk of T2D increases CHD risk (odds ratio (OR)=1.11 (1.05–1.17), per unit increase in odds of T2D, P=8.8 × 10−5; using data from 34,840/114,981 T2D cases/controls and 63,746/130,681 CHD cases/controls). FG in non-diabetic individuals tends to increase CHD risk (OR=1.15 (1.00–1.32), per mmol·per l, P=0.05; 133,010 non-diabetic individuals and 63,746/130,681 CHD cases/controls). These findings provide evidence supporting a causal relationship between T2D and CHD and suggest that long-term trials may be required to discern the effects of T2D therapies on CHD risk.
Abnormal splicing switch of DMD’s penultimate exon compromises muscle fibre maintenance in myotonic dystrophy
Authors: Rau Frédérique , Lainé Jeanne , Ramanoudjame Laetitita , Ferry Arnaud , Arandel Ludovic , Delalande Olivier , Jollet Arnaud , Dingli Florent , Lee Kuang-Yung , Peccate Cécile , Lorain Stéphanie , Kabashi Edor , Athanasopoulos Takis , Koo Taeyoung , Loew Damarys , Swanson Maurice S. , Le Rumeur Elisabeth , Dickson George , Allamand Valérie , Marie Joëlle , Furling Denis
Published: May 2015

Myotonic Dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a dominant neuromuscular disease caused by nuclear-retained RNAs containing expanded CUG repeats. These toxic RNAs alter the activities of RNA splicing factors resulting in alternative splicing misregulation and muscular dysfunction. Here we show that the abnormal splicing of DMD exon 78 found in dystrophic muscles of DM1 patients is due to the functional loss of MBNL1 and leads to the re-expression of an embryonic dystrophin in place of the adult isoform. Forced expression of embryonic dystrophin in zebrafish using an exon-skipping approach severely impairs the mobility and muscle architecture. Moreover, reproducing Dmd exon 78 missplicing switch in mice induces muscle fibre remodelling and ultrastructural abnormalities including ringed fibres, sarcoplasmic masses or Z-band disorganization, which are characteristic features of dystrophic DM1 skeletal muscles. Thus, we propose that splicing misregulation of DMD exon 78 compromises muscle fibre maintenance and contributes to the progressive dystrophic process in DM1.
Spheroidal carbonaceous particles are a defining stratigraphic marker for the Anthropocene
Authors: Swindles Graeme T. , Watson Elizabeth , Turner T. Edward , Galloway Jennifer M. , Hadlari Thomas , Wheeler Jane , Bacon Karen L.
Published: May 2015

There has been recent debate over stratigraphic markers used to demarcate the Anthropocene from the Holocene Epoch. However, many of the proposed markers are found only in limited areas of the world or do not reflect human impacts on the environment. Here we show that spheroidal carbonaceous particles (SCPs), a distinct form of black carbon produced from burning fossil fuels in energy production and heavy industry, provide unambiguous stratigraphic markers of the human activities that have rapidly changed planet Earth over the last century. SCPs are found in terrestrial and marine sediments or ice cores in every continent, including remote areas such as the high Arctic and Antarctica. The rapid increase in SCPs mostly occurs in the mid-twentieth century and is contemporaneous with the ‘Great Acceleration’. It therefore reflects the intensification of fossil fuel usage and can be traced across the globe. We integrate global records of SCPs and propose that the global rapid increase in SCPs in sedimentary records can be used to inform a Global Standard Stratigraphic Age for the Anthropocene. A high-resolution SCP sequence from a lake or peatland may provide the much-needed ‘Golden Spike’ (Global Boundary Stratotype Section and Point).
Observing microscopic structures of a relativistic object using a time-stretch strategy
Authors: Roussel E. , Evain C. , Le Parquier M. , Szwaj C. , Bielawski S. , Manceron L. , Brubach J.-B. , Tordeux M.-A. , Ricaud J.-P. , Cassinari L. , Labat M. , Couprie M.-E , Roy P.
Published: May 2015

Emission of light by a single electron moving on a curved trajectory (synchrotron radiation) is one of the most well-known fundamental radiation phenomena. However experimental situations are more complex as they involve many electrons, each being exposed to the radiation of its neighbors. This interaction has dramatic consequences, one of the most spectacular being the spontaneous formation of spatial structures inside electrons bunches. This fundamental effect is actively studied as it represents one of the most fundamental limitations in electron accelerators and at the same time a source of intense terahertz radiation (Coherent Synchrotron Radiation, or CSR). Here we demonstrate the possibility to directly observe the electron bunch microstructures with subpicosecond resolution, in a storage ring accelerator. The principle is to monitor the terahertz pulses emitted by the structures, using a strategy from photonics, time-stretch, consisting in slowing-down the phenomena before recording. This opens the way to unpreceeded possibilities for analyzing and mastering new generation high power coherent synchrotron sources.
L-cystathionine inhibits oxidized low density lipoprotein-induced THP-1-derived macrophage inflammatory cytokine monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 generation via the NF-κB pathway
Authors: Zhu Mingzhu , Du Junbao , Liu Angie Dong , Holmberg Lukas , Chen Selena Y , Bu Dingfang , Tang Chaoshu , Jin Hongfang
Published: May 2015

This study aimed to explore whether and how L-cystathionine had any regulatory effect on the inflammatory response in THP-1-derived macrophages cultured in vitro under oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) stimulation. The human monocyte line THP-1 cell was cultured in vitro and differentiated into macrophages after 24 hours of PMA induction. Macrophages were pretreated with L-cystathionine and then treated with ox-LDL. The results showed that compared with the controls, ox-LDL stimulation significantly upregulated the expression of THP-1-derived macrophage MCP-1 by enhancing NF-κB p65 phosphorylation, nuclear translocation and DNA binding with the MCP-1 promoter. Compared with the ox-LDL group, 0.3 mmol/L and 1.0 mmol/L L-cystathionine significantly inhibited the expression of THP-1-derived macrophage MCP-1. Mechanistically, 0.3 mmol/L and 1.0 mmol/L L-cystathionine suppressed phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of the NF-κB p65 protein, as well as the DNA binding activity and DNA binding level of NF-κB with the MCP-1 promoter, which resulted in a reduced THP-1-derived macrophage MCP-1 generation. This study suggests that L-cystathionine could inhibit the expression of MCP-1 in THP-1-derived macrophages induced by ox-LDL via inhibition of NF-κB p65 phosphorylation, nuclear translocation and binding of the MCP-1 promoter sequence after entry into the nucleus.
Arginine methylation of hnRNPUL1 regulates interaction with NBS1 and recruitment to sites of DNA damage
Authors: Gurunathan Gayathri , Yu Zhenbao , Coulombe Yan , Masson Jean-Yves , Richard Stéphane
Published: May 2015

Arginine methylation is a post-translational modification required for the maintenance of genomic integrity. Cells deficient in protein arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) have DNA damage signaling defects, defective checkpoint activation and extensive genomic instability. Herein we identify the DNA damage protein and RNA binding protein, hnRNPUL1, to be a substrate of PRMT1. We identify the dimethylation of R584, R618, R620, R645 and R656, as well as the monomethylation of R661 R685 and R690 within hnRNPUL1 in U2OS cells by mass spectrometry. Moreover, we define the arginines within the RGG/RG motifs as the site of methylation by PRMT1 both in vitro and in vivo. The arginines 612, 618, 620, 639, 645, 656 and 661 within the human hnRNPUL1 RGG/RG motifs were substituted with lysines to generate hnRNPUL1RK. hnRNPUL1RK was hypomethylated and lacked the ability to interact with PRMT1, unlike wild type hnRNPUL1. Co-immunoprecipitation studies showed that hnRNPUL1RK had impaired ability to associate with the DNA damage protein NBS1. Moreover, hnRNPUL1RK was not recruited to sites of DNA damage, unlike wild type hnRNPUL1, in the presence of transcriptional inhibitors. These findings define a role for arginine methylation during the DNA damage response to regulate protein-protein interactions for the recruitment at sites of damage.
A molecular dynamics study of catestatin docked on nicotinic acetylcholine receptors to identify amino acids potentially involved in the binding of chromogranin A fragments
Authors: Kraszewski Sebastian , Drabik Dominik , Langner Marek , Ramseyer Christophe , Kembubpha Sineenat , Yasothornsrikul Sukkid
Published: May 2015

Human catestatin, representing potential to regulate nicotinic signal transduction, can bind onto nAChR-β subunits indicating a novel mode of action.
Topical (+)-catechin emulsified gel prevents DMBA/TPA-induced squamous cell carcinoma of the skin by modulating antioxidants and inflammatory biomarkers in BALB/c mice
Authors: Monga Jitender , Aggarwal Vaibhav , Suthar Sharad Kumar , Monika Monika , Nongalleima Khumukcham , Sharma Manu
Published: May 2015

An emulsified gel of (+)-catechin was developed and evaluated topically against DMBA/TPA-induced squamous cell carcinoma of the skin in BALB/c mice.
In vitro effects of low-level aldehyde exposures on human umbilical vein endothelial cells
Authors: Cheah Nuan P. , Pennings Jeroen L.A. , Vermeulen Jolanda P. , Godschalk Roger W.L. , van Schooten Frederik J. , Opperhuizen Antoon
Published: May 2015

Aldehydes cause gene expression changes for genes associated with cardiovascular disease. Exposure to aldehydes from tobacco smoke needs to be controlled.
Isothermal rolling circle amplification of virus genomes for rapid antigen detection and typing
Authors: Brasino Michael D. , Cha Jennifer N.
Published: May 2015

In this work, isothermal rolling circle amplification (RCA) of the multi-kilobase genome of engineered filamentous bacteriophage is used to report the presence and identification of specific protein analytes in solution.
Development of nanoelectrospray high resolution isotope dilution mass spectrometry for targeted quantitative analysis of urinary metabolites: application to population profiling and clinical studies
Authors: Chekmeneva Elena , Correia Gonçalo , Dénes Júlia , Gómez-Romero María , Wijeyesekera Anisha , Perenyi Dora R. , Koot Yvonne , Boomsma Carolien , Want Elisabeth. J. , Dixon Peter H. , Macklon Nicholas S. , Chan Queenie , Takáts Zoltán , Nicholson Jeremy K. , Holmes Elaine
Published: May 2015

An automated nESI-HRMS method for targeted quantitative analysis and global metabolic profiling of urine samples.
A gallium telluride quantum dots bioelectrode system for human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (Her2/neu) oncogene signalling
Authors: Fuku Xolile , Singh Baljit , Ajayi Rachel F. , Jijana Abongile N. , Baker Priscilla , Dempsey Eithne , Iwuoha Emmanuel
Published: May 2015

A new biosensor system is presented for the determination of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (Her2/neu) biomarker that is overexpressed in human breast cancer.
An automated method for monitoring aluminum in water samples based on a sequential injection platform
Authors: Sklenářová H. , Fialová B. , Šandrejová J. , Chocholouš P. , Solich P.
Published: May 2015

The simple colour reaction between aluminum(iii) and aluminon reagent was transferred to an automated sequential injection system.
A bodipy based dual functional probe for the detection of hydrogen sulfide and H2S induced apoptosis in cellular systems
Authors: Gupta Neha , Reja Shahi Imam , Bhalla Vandana , Gupta Muskan , Kaur Gurcharan , Kumar Manoj
Published: May 2015

A bodipy based dual functional probe1has been designed and synthesized, which selectively detects H2S as well as monitors H2S induced apoptosis in cells.
Highly sensitive DNA methylation analysis at CpG resolution by surface-enhanced Raman scattering via ligase chain reaction
Authors: Wang Yuling , Wee Eugene J. H. , Trau Matt
Published: May 2015

Highly sensitive DNA methylation analysis at CpG resolution is demonstrated by employing SERS nanotags via ligase chain reaction (LCR) and validated with sequencing.
Metallopeptoids as efficient biomimetic catalysts
Authors: Prathap Kaniraj Jeya , Maayan Galia
Published: May 2015

Metallopeptoid catalysts incorporating phenanthroline–copper and TEMPO, and at least one non-catalytic group perform in the oxidation of various benzylic, allylic and aliphatic primary alcohols with a TON of up to 16 times higher than a mixture of the two catalytic groups or the peptoid dimer that is lacking the non-catalytic group.
Three luminescent metal–organic frameworks constructed from trinuclear zinc(ii) clusters and furan-2,5-dicarboxylate
Authors: Li Huan-Huan , Niu Zheng , Chen Long , Jiang Hao-Bin , Wang Ya-Ping , Cheng Peng
Published: May 2015

Three metal–organic frameworks constructed from trinuclear zinc(ii) clusters and furan-2,5-dicarboxylate with different topology were hydrothermally synthesized by adjusting the anions and solvent. Moreover, the blue luminescence of the complexes was investigated.
Tensor numerical methods in quantum chemistry: from Hartree–Fock to excitation energies
Authors: Khoromskaia Venera , Khoromskij Boris N.
Published: May 2015

We resume the recent successes of the grid-based tensor numerical methods and discuss their prospects in real-space electronic structure calculations.
Zinc metal complex as a sensor for simultaneous detection of fluoride and HSO4−ions
Authors: Singh Jasminder , Yadav Manisha , Singh Ajnesh , Singh Narinder
Published: May 2015

Organic–Inorganic nanoparticles (ONPs) of a complex formed of a tripodal receptor with a zinc metal ion were used for simultaneous determination of F−and HSO4−ions.
A new family of high nuclearity CoII/DyIII coordination clusters possessing robust and unseen topologies
Authors: Berkoff Benjamin , Griffiths Kieran , Abdul-Sada Alaa , Tizzard Graham J. , Coles Simon J. , Escuer Albert , Kostakis George E.
Published: May 2015

Mixing Co(NO3)2·6H2O/Dy(NO3)3·6H2O/(E)-4-(2-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzylideneamino)-2,3-dimethyl-1-phenyl-1,2-dihydropyrazol-5-one (HL)/pivalic acid/Et3N in various solvents gives products with robust and unseen topologies.
Introductory lecture on corrosion chemistry: a focus on anodic hydrogen evolution on Al and Mg
Authors: Frankel G. S. , Fajardo S. , Lynch B. M.
Published: May 2015

The increase in the rate of hydrogen evolution (HE) on dissolving Mg surfaces with increasing anodic current density or potential, which is sometimes called the negative difference effect, has been the topic of much discussion in recent years. A review of the very recent contributions to this subject is given in this paper. Increased catalytic activity of the corrosion product layer, either from the accumulated impurities or from the Mg oxy-hydroxide itself, is shown to have a minor influence on the anodic HE observed on dissolving Mg at high anodic current densities and potentials. Al exhibits similar characteristics during anodic polarization in concentrated HCl, although the anodic HE rate on Al is less than on Mg. Possible mechanisms for the anodic hydrogen are provided and implications in the area of intergranular corrosion and environmental cracking are discussed.
Graphene/h-BN plasmon–phonon coupling and plasmon delocalization observed by infrared nano-spectroscopy
Authors: Barcelos Ingrid D. , Cadore Alisson R. , Campos Leonardo C. , Malachias Angelo , Watanabe K. , Taniguchi T. , Maia Francisco C. B. , Freitas Raul , Deneke Christoph
Published: May 2015

We observed the coupling of graphene plasmons with different surfaces using scanning near-field optical microscopy integrated into a synchrotron beamline.
Ultralow-power non-volatile memory cells based on P(VDF-TrFE) ferroelectric-gate CMOS silicon nanowire channel field-effect transistors
Authors: Huynh Van Ngoc , Lee Jae-Hyun , Whang Dongmok , Kang Dae Joon
Published: May 2015

Nanowire-based ferroelectric-complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (NW FeCMOS) nonvolatile memory devices were successfully fabricated by utilizing single n- and p-type Si nanowire ferroelectric-gate field effect transistors (NW FeFETs) as individual memory cells.
Visual detection of formaldehyde by highly selective fluorophore labeling via gold(iii) complex-mediated three-component coupling reaction
Authors: Wong Kong-Fan , Deng Jie-Ren , Wei Xiao-Qun , Shao Shi-Ping , Xiang Da-Peng , Wong Man-Kin
Published: May 2015

Visual fluorescence detection of formaldehyde by a highly selective gold(iii) complex-mediated three component coupling reaction has been described.
Magnetic nanoparticles supported oxime palladacycle as a highly efficient and separable catalyst for room temperature Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction in aqueous media
Authors: Gholinejad Mohammad , Razeghi Mehran , Najera Carmen
Published: May 2015

Magnetic nanoparticles of Fe3O4 supported oxime palladacycle as a novel catalyst for room temperature Suzuki coupling reaction in aqueous media.
Sulfonated polyethylene glycol (PEG-OSO3H) as a polymer supported biodegradable and recyclable catalyst in green organic synthesis: recent advances
Authors: Vekariya Rajesh H. , Patel Hitesh D.
Published: May 2015

The objective of this review is to summarize some of the recent advances in a sulfuric acid-modified polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG-OSO3H) as a stable, recyclable and bio-degradable polymeric catalyst in green organic synthesis.
Preparation of a titanium metal electrode with a nitrogen-doped one-dimensional titanium oxide surface layer for the support of catalysts
Authors: Yamaguchi Seiji , Khanna Rohit , Matsushita Tomiharu , Wang Ang , Ohta Takehiro , Naruta Yoshinori , Takadama Hiroaki
Published: May 2015

A Ti metal electrode with nanostructured titanium oxide that possesses high electrical conductivity, a large specific surface area and the capacity for supporting catalysts was prepared by a simple solution and heat treatment.
Green and low-cost synthesis of PANI–TiO2 nanocomposite mesoporous films for photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Hidalgo D. , Bocchini S. , Fontana M. , Saracco G. , Hernández S.
Published: May 2015

Green and low-cost synthesis procedure for preparation of PANI/TiO2 mesoporous nanocomposite films with enhanced photocatalytic performance, thanks to a synergic reaction mechanism between PANI and TiO2 under UV light irradiation.
Superhydrophobic surface on copper via a one-step solvent-free process and its application in oil spill collection
Authors: Lv Damei , Ou Junfei , Hu Weihua , Luo Xubiao , Wang Fajun
Published: May 2015

An environment-friendly process was developed to fabricate a superhydrophobic surface on copper, which could be applied in oil spill collection.
Alginate fibers embedded with silver nanoparticles as efficient catalysts for reduction of 4-nitrophenol
Authors: Zhao X. H. , Li Q. , Ma X. M. , Xiong Z. , Quan F. Y. , Xia Y. Z.
Published: May 2015

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have attracted much attention as promising catalysts in various electron transfer reactions due to their high catalytic efficiency.
Research on thermoplastic starch and different fiber reinforced biomass composites
Authors: Wang Cheng-zhao , Li Fang-yi , Wang Li-ming , Li Jian-feng , Guo An-fu , Zhang Chuan-wei , Liu Peng
Published: May 2015

Thermoplastic starch (TPS) from native corn starch was prepared using various mass ratios of formamide–urea compound plasticizers and four TPS composites reinforced with equal amounts of sisal, pulp, straw and wood fibers were obtained by foam molding.
Versatility and robustness of ZnO:Cs electron transporting layer for printable organic solar cells
Authors: Zuo Lijian , Zhang Shuhua , Dai Shuai , Chen Hongzheng
Published: May 2015

The Cs doped ZnO:Cs exhibits higher conductivity and lowered work function, and improves the device performance, which shows insensitive to the ZnO:Cs thickness.
Preparation of 2-phenyl-3-hydroxyquinoline-4(1H)-one-5-carboxamides as potential anticancer and fluorescence agents
Authors: Funk Petr , Motyka Kamil , Džubák Petr , Znojek Pawel , Gurská Soňa , Kusz Joachim , McMaster Claire , Hajdúch Marián , Soural Miroslav
Published: May 2015

A simple pathway leading to 3-hydroxyquinoline-4(1H)-one-5-carboxamides was developed. Target compounds were identified as potential anticancer agents and fluorescent labels.
Iron catalyzed CO2hydrogenation to formate enhanced by Lewis acid co-catalysts
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , MacIntosh Alex D. , Wong Janice L. , Bielinski Elizabeth A. , Williard Paul G. , Mercado Brandon Q. , Hazari Nilay , Bernskoetter Wesley H.
Published: May 2015

Iron/Lewis acid co-catalysts hydrogenate to CO2to formate with unprecedented turnover for a first row transition metal catalyst.
Mechanical and structural comparison between primary tumor and lymph node metastasis cells in colorectal cancer
Authors: Palmieri V. , Lucchetti D. , Maiorana A. , Papi M. , Maulucci G. , Calapà F. , Ciasca G. , Giordano R. , Sgambato A. , De Spirito M.
Published: May 2015

Regulation of cell mechanics allows cancer cells to acquire specialized functions. Primary tumor soft rounded cells are responsible for tumor volume increase, while elongated stiff cells invade neighbouring tissues. Once reached the lymph node, cells reorganize actin and increase adhesion to cope with high shear forces.
3D porous poly(l-lactic acid) foams composed of nanofibers, nanofibrous microsheaves and microspheres and their application in oil–water separation
Authors: Zhang Wen , Liu Min , Liu Yingying , Liu Ruilai , Wei Fangfang , Xiao Rongdong , Liu Haiqing
Published: May 2015

Highly hydrophobic PLLA foams composed of nanofibrous microsheaves and microspheres were fabricated and applied as an oil–water separation material.
Smooth perovskite thin films and efficient perovskite solar cells prepared by the hybrid deposition method
Authors: Wang Shenghao , Ono Luis K. , Leyden Matthew R. , Kato Yuichi , Raga Sonia R. , Lee Michael V. , Qi Yabing
Published: May 2015

The hybrid deposition method was developed to overcome the difficulties that the vacuum-based techniques face for fabricating perovskite solar cells. Our results provide an explanation of various factors that need optimizing to achieve convenient and reliable fabrication of large-area smooth perovskite thin films for solar cell applications without the use of solvents.
Mechanically robust waveguide‐integration and beam shaping of terahertz quantum cascade lasers
Authors: Valavanis A. , Han Y.J. , Brewster N. , Dean P. , Dong R. , Bushnell L. , Oldfield M. , Zhu J.X. , Li L.H. , Davies A.G. , Ellison B. , Linfield E.H.
Published: May 2015

Terahertz‐frequency quantum cascade lasers (THz QCLs) have numerous potential applications as 1–5 THz radiation sources in space science, biomedical and industrial sensing scenarios. However, the key obstacles to their wide‐scale adoption outside laboratory environments have included their poor far‐field beam quality and the lack of mechanically robust schemes that allow integration of QCLs with THz waveguides, mixers and other system components. A block integration scheme is presented, in which a continuous‐wave ∼3.4 THz double‐metal QCL is bonded into a precision‐machined rectangular waveguide within a copper heat‐sink block. This highly reproducible approach provides a single‐lobed far‐field beam profile with a divergence of ≲20°, and with no significant degradation in threshold current or in the range of operating temperatures.
Inversion gate capacitance of undoped single-gate and double-gate field-effect transistor geometries in the extreme quantum limit
Authors: Majumdar Amlan
Published: May 2015

We present first-principle analytical derivations and numerically modeled data to show that the gate capacitance per unit gate area CG of extremely thin undoped-channel single-gate and double-gate field-effect transistor geometries in the extreme quantum limit with single-subband occupancy can be written as 1/CG = 1/COX + NG/CDOS + NG/ηCWF, where NG is the number of gates, COX is the oxide capacitance per unit area, CDOS is the density-of-states capacitance per unit area, CWF is the wave function spreading capacitance per unit area, and η is a constant on the order of 1.
Cross Sections for Electron Collisions with Methane
Authors: Song Mi-Young , Yoon Jung-Sik , Cho Hyuck , Itikawa Yukikazu , Karwasz Grzegorz P. , Kokoouline Viatcheslav , Nakamura Yoshiharu , Tennyson Jonathan
Published: May 2015

Cross section data are compiled from the literature for electron collisions with methane (CH4) molecules. Cross sections are collected and reviewed for total scattering, elastic scattering, momentum transfer, excitations of rotational and vibrational states, dissociation, ionization, and dissociative attachment. The data derived from swarm experiments are also considered. For each of these processes, the recommended values of the cross sections are presented. The literature has been surveyed through early 2014.
Invited Article: Single-shot THz detection techniques optimized for multidimensional THz spectroscopy
Authors: Teo Stephanie M. , Ofori-Okai Benjamin K. , Werley Christopher A. , Nelson Keith A.
Published: May 2015

Multidimensional spectroscopy at visible and infrared frequencies has opened a window into the transfer of energy and quantum coherences at ultrafast time scales. For these measurements to be performed in a manageable amount of time, one spectral axis is typically recorded in a single laser shot. An analogous rapid-scanning capability for THz measurements will unlock the multidimensional toolkit in this frequency range. Here, we first review the merits of existing single-shot THz schemes and discuss their potential in multidimensional THz spectroscopy. We then introduce improved experimental designs and noise suppression techniques for the two most promising methods: frequency-to-time encoding with linear spectral interferometry and angle-to-time encoding with dual echelons. Both methods, each using electro-optic detection in the linear regime, were able to reproduce the THz temporal waveform acquired with a traditional scanning delay line. Although spectral interferometry had mediocre performance in terms of signal-to-noise, the dual echelon method was easily implemented and achieved the same level of signal-to-noise as the scanning delay line in only 4.5% of the laser pulses otherwise required (or 22 times faster). This reduction in acquisition time will compress day-long scans to hours and hence provides a practical technique for multidimensional THz measurements.
Accompanying coordinate expansion and recurrence relation method using a transfer relation scheme for electron repulsion integrals with high angular momenta and long contractions
Authors: Hayami Masao , Seino Junji , Nakai Hiromi
Published: May 2015

An efficient algorithm for the rapid evaluation of electron repulsion integrals is proposed. The present method, denoted by accompanying coordinate expansion and transferred recurrence relation (ACE-TRR), is constructed using a transfer relation scheme based on the accompanying coordinate expansion and recurrence relation method. Furthermore, the ACE-TRR algorithm is extended for the general-contraction basis sets. Numerical assessments clarify the efficiency of the ACE-TRR method for the systems including heavy elements, whose orbitals have long contractions and high angular momenta, such as f- and g-orbitals.
Design and optimization of arrays of neodymium iron boron-based magnets for magnetic tweezers applications
Authors: Zacchia Nicholas A. , Valentine Megan T.
Published: May 2015

We present the design methodology for arrays of neodymium iron boron (NdFeB)-based magnets for use in magnetic tweezers devices. Using finite element analysis (FEA), we optimized the geometry of the NdFeB magnet as well as the geometry of iron yokes designed to focus the magnetic fields toward the sample plane. Together, the magnets and yokes form a magnetic array which is the basis of the magnetic tweezers device. By systematically varying 15 distinct shape parameters, we determined those features that maximize the magnitude of the magnetic field gradient as well as the length scale over which the magnetic force operates. Additionally, we demonstrated that magnetic saturation of the yoke material leads to intrinsic limitations in any geometric design. Using this approach, we generated a compact and light-weight magnetic tweezers device that produces a high field gradient at the image plane in order to apply large forces to magnetic beads. We then fabricated the optimized yoke and validated the FEA by experimentally mapping the magnetic field of the device. The optimization data and iterative FEA approach outlined here will enable the streamlined design and construction of specialized instrumentation for force-sensitive microscopy.
Multiblock copolymers prepared by patterned modification: Analytical theory and computer simulations
Authors: Govorun E. N. , Gavrilov A. A. , Chertovich A. V.
Published: May 2015

We describe a special type of multiblock copolymers which are synthesized by a hypothetic procedure of the modification of monomer units in a polymer melt according to a certain geometrical criterion. In particular, we explore the case of lamellar-like structures: the sequence statistics of the resulting multiblock copolymers is described and their ability to self-assemble is studied. It is found that the block-size distribution P(k) for such random copolymers contains a large fraction of short blocks with the asymptotic dependence ∼k−3/2, where k is the block size. A characteristic feature of such multiblock copolymers is their extremely high block-size polydispersity with the polydispersity index being proportional to the space period of the modification. The morphological behavior of such copolymers is simulated by means of dissipative particle dynamics. A stable self-assembled lamellar structure is observed, but the domain size appears to be sufficiently larger than the initial pattern period.