bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prioritizing Care During the Acute Phase: The Prominent Role of Basic Psychosocial Life Support
Authors: Rooze Magda , Netten Josee , de Ruyter Ariëlle , de Vries Maaike , Helsloot Ira , de Soir Erik , Selwood Philip , Schenk Henk , Hustinx Paul , Olinder Henrik
Published: August 2016

The issue of basic psychosocial life support during and after disasters is important. People who are affected by disasters can experience severe distress and may need psychosocial support. However, there still are many questions about service design and effectiveness of psychosocial support.

During the process of the Targeted Agenda Program, “Prioritizing Care during the Acute Phase: The Prominent Role of Basic Psychosocial Life Support”, a team of experts reached consensus on some important issues concerning psychosocial first aid, civil participation, and risk communication.The experts come from many different backgrounds, which supports the notion that psychosocial care deserves special attention within disaster relief programs involving all disciplines and all responsibilities.
The Public Health Dimension of Disasters—Health Outcome Assessment of Disasters
Authors: van den Berg Bellis , Grievink Linda , Gutschmidt Kersten , Lang Thierry , Palmer Stephen , Ruijten Marc , Stumpel Rene , Yzermans Joris
Published: August 2016

A broad range of health problems are related to disasters. Insight into these health problems is needed for targeted disaster management. Disaster health outcome assessment can provide insight into the health effects of disasters.

During the 15th World Congress on Disaster and Emergency Medicine in Amsterdam (2007), experts in the field of disaster epidemiology discussed important aspects of disaster health outcome assessment, such as: (1) what is meant by disaster health outcome assessment?; (2) why should one conduct a disaster health outcome assessment, and what are the objectives?, and (3) who benefits from the information obtained by a disaster health outcome assessment?

A disaster health outcome assessment can be defined as a systematic assessment of the current and potential health problems in a population affected by a disaster. Different methods can be used to examine these health problems such as: (1) rapid assessment of health needs; (2) (longitudinal) epidemiological studies using questionnaires; (3) continuous surveillance of health problems using existing registration systems; (4) assessment of the use and distribution of health services; and (5) research into the etiology of the health effects of disasters.

The public health impact of a disaster may not be immediately evident. Disaster health outcome assessment provides insight into the health related consequences of disasters. The information that is obtained by performing a disaster health outcome assessment can be used to initiate and adapt the provision of health care. Besides information for policy-makers, disaster health outcome assessments can contribute to the knowledge and evidence base of disaster health outcomes (scientific objective). Finally, disaster health outcome assessment might serve as a signal of recognition of the problems of the survivors.

Several stakeholders may benefit from the information obtained from a disaster health outcome assessment. Disaster decision-makers and the public health community benefit from performing a disaster health outcome assessment, since it provides information that is useful for the different aspects of disaster management. Also, by providing information about the nature, prevalence, and course of health problems, (mental) health care workers can anticipate the health needs and requirements in the affected population.

It is important to realize that the disaster is not over when the acute care has been provided. Instead, disasters will cause many other health problems and concerns such as infectious diseases and mental health problems. Disaster health outcome assessments provide insight into the public health impact of disasters.
Is There One Optimal Medical Treatment and Evacuation Chain for All Situations: “Scoop-and-Run” or “Stay-and-Play”
Authors: Hoejenbos Maarten J.J. , McManus John , Hodgetts Timothy
Published: August 2016

In 2006, the Ministry of Defense of the Netherlands initiated a targeted agenda program for the World Congress on Disaster and Emergency Medicine in Amsterdam in 2007 (15WCDEM). The issue to be discussed was if there is one “golden” treatment and evacuation system that is applicable for different military and civilian situations. And, if there is not such a system, which parameters are important to construct the most optimal system for each different situation. This issue is related to the applicability and evidence base of the standards of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.

A group of experts started a website discussion on the issue during December 2006. During the 15WCDEM, several other participants were active in the discussion.

Using the different experiences and the outcome of the discussions, it was concluded that there is not one “golden” medical emergency system, there are no “golden” timelines, and no “golden” skills. A medical system should be flexible and be able to adjust on each specific, local situation. First responder and non-medical people with medical skills (first responders) are essential in the front line of the emergency medical systems. More research is needed on the medical techniques and skills that are most effective early in the treatment and evacuation systems. Lessons learned from the military system are relevant for the civilian emergency medical services and vice-versa. The World Association for Disaster and Emergency Medicine can be an important platform to share and exchange information between these two systems.The target of the platform should be to obtain a generic picture of the important elements in prehospital emergency medical care.
Humanitarian Action Summit: Exploring the Edges of Humanitarian Health
Authors: VanRooyen Michael J. , Burkle Frederick M.
Published: August 2016

The Summit, now in its third year, was developed to address some major points of need and controversy in the humanitarian field, to establish a dialogue among practitioners and humanitarian strategists, and to promote discussion about complex and controversial issues that face the humanitarian community. What follows in this publication is a detailed review of the goals, deliberations, and recommendations of the Working Groups, concluding with an analysis of future needs. The authors hope that the Summit, and the resulting action items, serve as a launching point for organizational, governmental, and United Nations practices and policies to advance the professionalism, quality and accountability of humanitarian intervention.
Frequently Asked Questions of Prospective Humanitarian Health Professionals
Authors: Sorensen Brian S.
Published: August 2016

It is common for students and professionals considering a career in humanitarian health to have questions regarding the scope and nature of humanitarian work as well as the avenues by which one can enter the field. Because the profession is emerging and complex, answers to these questions may be difficult to find. This paper addresses several frequently asked questions of prospective humanitarian health professionals with information, experience and advice from current experts in the field. Special thanks to the distinguished contributors.
Challenges to the Humanitarian Community: The Role of Academia in Advancing Best Practices and Policy Promotion
Authors: Burkle Frederick M. , Clarke Gib , VanRooyen Michael J.
Published: August 2016

The Humanitarian Action Summit is unique in that it focuses solely on chronic, unsolved problems facing the humanitarian community. As an academically-based format, it provides an environment whereby health professionals, non-governmental organizations, donors, academic institutions, governmental agencies, advocates, and the media address and identify potential deliverables and products to improve best practices, field implementation, and policy promotion and acceleration. The Humanitarian Action Summit was preceded by year-long, online Working Groups that addressed human resource development, civilian protection in conflict, information communication and data management, collaboration and collective action in the health sector, mental health in crises and conflict, and the global burden of surgical disease. The Humanitarian Action Summit also addressed new and emerging humanitarian crises such as climate change, the influence of the military on humanitarian aid, and urbanization. This article focuses primarily on an inherent weakness of the humanitarian community—that of promoting humanitarian action into policy. The goal and process of developing a partnership relationship with a policy level institution to address this problem is described in detail.
How Sea Surface Temperatures Affect an Atmospheric Phenomenon
Authors: Hall Shannon
Published: August 2016

New research sheds light on the complex interplay between the atmosphere and the ocean and how both affect the Madden-Julian Oscillation.
Assembled molecular face-rotating polyhedra to transfer chirality from two to three dimensions
Authors: Wang Xinchang , Wang Yu , Yang Huayan , Fang Hongxun , Chen Ruixue , Sun Yibin , Zheng Nanfeng , Tan Kai , Lu Xin , Tian Zhongqun , Cao Xiaoyu
Published: August 2016

In nature, protein subunits on the capsids of many icosahedral viruses form rotational patterns, and mathematicians also incorporate asymmetric patterns into faces of polyhedra. Chemists have constructed molecular polyhedra with vacant or highly symmetric faces, but very little is known about constructing polyhedra with asymmetric faces. Here we report a strategy to embellish a C3h truxene unit with rotational patterns into the faces of an octahedron, forming chiral octahedra that exhibit the largest molar ellipticity ever reported, to the best of our knowledge. The directionalities of the facial rotations can be controlled by vertices to achieve identical rotational directionality on each face, resembling the homo-directionality of virus capsids. Investigations of the kinetics and mechanism reveal that non-covalent interaction among the faces is essential to the facial homo-directionality.
No complexity–stability relationship in empirical ecosystems
Authors: Jacquet Claire , Moritz Charlotte , Morissette Lyne , Legagneux Pierre , Massol François , Archambault Philippe , Gravel Dominique
Published: August 2016

Understanding the mechanisms responsible for stability and persistence of ecosystems is one of the greatest challenges in ecology. Robert May showed that, contrary to intuition, complex randomly built ecosystems are less likely to be stable than simpler ones. Few attempts have been tried to test May’s prediction empirically, and we still ignore what is the actual complexity–stability relationship in natural ecosystems. Here we perform a stability analysis of 116 quantitative food webs sampled worldwide. We find that classic descriptors of complexity (species richness, connectance and interaction strength) are not associated with stability in empirical food webs. Further analysis reveals that a correlation between the effects of predators on prey and those of prey on predators, combined with a high frequency of weak interactions, stabilize food web dynamics relative to the random expectation. We conclude that empirical food webs have several non-random properties contributing to the absence of a complexity–stability relationship.
Electrolysis of a molten semiconductor
Authors: Yin Huayi , Chung Brice , Sadoway Donald R.
Published: August 2016

Metals cannot be extracted by electrolysis of transition-metal sulfides because as liquids they are semiconductors, which exhibit high levels of electronic conduction and metal dissolution. Herein by introduction of a distinct secondary electrolyte, we reveal a high-throughput electro-desulfurization process that directly converts semiconducting molten stibnite (Sb2S3) into pure (99.9%) liquid antimony and sulfur vapour. At the bottom of the cell liquid antimony pools beneath cathodically polarized molten stibnite. At the top of the cell sulfur issues from a carbon anode immersed in an immiscible secondary molten salt electrolyte disposed above molten stibnite, thereby blocking electronic shorting across the cell. As opposed to conventional extraction practices, direct sulfide electrolysis completely avoids generation of problematic fugitive emissions (CO2, CO and SO2), significantly reduces energy consumption, increases productivity in a single-step process (lower capital and operating costs) and is broadly applicable to a host of electronically conductive transition-metal chalcogenides.
Graphene-based extremely wide-angle tunable metamaterial absorber
Authors: Linder Jacob , Halterman Klaus
Published: August 2016

We investigate the absorption properties of graphene-based anisotropic metamaterial structures where the metamaterial layer possesses an electromagnetic response corresponding to a near-zero permittivity. We find that through analytical and numerical studies, near perfect absorption arises over an unusually broad range of beam incidence angles. Due to the presence of graphene, the absorption is tunable via a gate voltage, providing dynamic control of the energy transmission. We show that this strongly enhanced absorption arises due to a coupling between light and a fast wave-mode propagating along the graphene/metamaterial hybrid.
Role of vacancies, light elements and rare-earth metals doping in CeO2
Authors: Shi H. , Hussain T. , Ahuja R. , Kang T. W. , Luo W.
Published: August 2016

The magnetic properties and electronic structures of pure, doped and defective cerium oxide (CeO2) have been studied theoretically by means of ab initio calculations based on the density function theory (DFT) with the hybrid HF/DFT technique named PBE0. Carbon (C), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), sulphur (S), lanthanum (La) and praseodymium (Pr) doped in CeO2 and CeO2 containing oxygen vacancies (Ov) were considered. Our spin-polarized calculations show that C, N, Pr dopants and Ov defects magnetize the non-magnetic CeO2 in different degree. The optical band gap related to photocatalysis for pure CeO2, corresponding to the ultraviolet region, is reduced obviously by C, N, S, Pr impurities and oxygen vacancies, shifting to the visible region and even further to the infrared range. Especially, N-, S- and Pr-doped CeO2 could be used to photocatalytic water splitting for hydrogen production. As the concentration of Ov increasing up to 5%, the CeO2 exhibits a half-metallic properties.
Tamoxifen accelerates the repair of demyelinated lesions in the central nervous system
Authors: Gonzalez Ginez A. , Hofer Matthias P. , Syed Yasir A. , Amaral Ana I. , Rundle Jon , Rahman Saifur , Zhao Chao , Kotter Mark R. N.
Published: August 2016

Enhancing central nervous system (CNS) myelin regeneration is recognized as an important strategy to ameliorate the devastating consequences of demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis. Previous findings have indicated that myelin proteins, which accumulate following demyelination, inhibit remyelination by blocking the differentiation of rat oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) via modulation of PKCα. We therefore screened drugs for their potential to overcome this differentiation block. From our screening, tamoxifen emerges as a potent inducer of OPC differentiation in vitro. We show that the effects of tamoxifen rely on modulation of the estrogen receptors ERα, ERβ and GPR30. Furthermore, we demonstrate that administration of tamoxifen to demyelinated rats in vivo accelerates remyelination. Tamoxifen is a well-established drug and is thus a promising candidate for a drug to regenerate myelin, as it will not require extensive safety testing. In addition, Tamoxifen plays an important role in biomedical research as an activator of inducible genetic models. Our results highlight the importance of appropriate controls when using such models.
Leaf venation, as a resistor, to optimize a switchable IR absorber
Authors: Alston M. E. , Barber R.
Published: August 2016

Leaf vascular patterns are the mechanisms and mechanical support for the transportation of fluidics for photosynthesis and leaf development properties. Vascular hierarchical networks in leaves have far-reaching functions in optimal transport efficiency of functional fluidics. Embedding leaf morphogenesis as a resistor network is significant in the optimization of a translucent thermally functional material. This will enable regulation through pressure equalization by diminishing flow pressure variation. This paper investigates nature’s vasculature networks that exhibit hierarchical branching scaling applied to microfluidics. To enable optimum potential for pressure drop regulation by algorithm design. This code analysis of circuit conduit optimization for transport fluidic flow resistance is validated against CFD simulation, within a closed loop network. The paper will propose this self-optimization, characterization by resistance seeking targeting to determine a microfluidic network as a resistor. To advance a thermally function material as a switchable IR absorber.
Microscopy-based Saccharomyces cerevisiae complementation model reveals functional conservation and redundancy of N-terminal acetyltransferases
Authors: Osberg Camilla , Aksnes Henriette , Ninzima Sandra , Marie Michaël , Arnesen Thomas
Published: August 2016

N-terminal acetylation is a highly abundant protein modification catalyzed by N-terminal acetyltransferases (NATs) NatA-NatG. The Saccharomyces cerevisiae protein Arl3 depends on interaction with Sys1 for its localization to the Golgi and this targeting strictly requires NatC-mediated N-terminal acetylation of Arl3. We utilized the Arl3 acetylation-dependent localization phenotype as a model system for assessing the functional conservation and in vivo redundancy of several human NATs. The catalytic subunit of human NatC, hNaa30 (Mak3), restored Arl3 localization in the absence of yNaa30, but only in the presence of either yeast or human Naa35 subunit (Mak10). In contrast, hNaa35 was not able to replace its yeast orthologue without the co-expression of hNaa30, suggesting co-evolution of the two NatC subunits. The most recently discovered and organellar human NAT, NatF/Naa60, restored the Golgi localization of Arl3 in the absence of yNaa30. Interestingly, this was also true for hNaa60 lacking its membrane-binding domain whereas hNaa50 did not complement NatC function. This in vivo redundancy reflects NatC and NatF´s overlapping in vitro substrate specificities. The yeast model presented here provides a robust and rapid readout of NatC and NatF activity in vivo and revealed evolutionary conservation of the NatC complex and redundancy between NatC and NatF.
Monitoring PD-L1 positive circulating tumor cells in non-small cell lung cancer patients treated with the PD-1 inhibitor Nivolumab
Authors: Nicolazzo Chiara , Raimondi Cristina , Mancini MariaLaura , Caponnetto Salvatore , Gradilone Angela , Gandini Orietta , Mastromartino Maria , del Bene Gabriella , Prete Alessandra , Longo Flavia , Cortesi Enrico , Gazzaniga Paola
Published: August 2016

Controversial results on the predictive value of programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) status in lung tumor tissue for response to immune checkpoint inhibitors do not allow for any conclusive consideration. Liquid biopsy might allow real-time sampling of patients for PD-L1 through the course of the disease. Twenty-four stage IV NSCLC patients included in the Expanded Access Program with Nivolumab were enrolled. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) were analyzed by CellSearch with anti-human B7-H1/PD-L1 PE-conjugated antibody. PD-L1 expressing CTCs were assessed at baseline, at 3 and 6 months after starting therapy, and correlated with outcome. At baseline and at 3 months of treatment, the presence of CTCs and the expression of PD-L1 on their surface were found associated to poor patients outcome. Nevertheless, the high frequency of PD-L1 expressing CTCs hampered to discriminate the role of PD-L1 in defining prognosis. Conversely although CTCs were found in all patients 6 months after treatment, at this time patients could be dichotomized into two groups based PD-L1 expression on CTCs. Patients with PD-L1 negative CTCs all obtained a clinical benefit, while patients with PD-L1 (+) CTCs all experienced progressive disease. This suggests that the persistence of PD-L1(+) CTCs might mirror a mechanism of therapy escape.
Pressure dependency of localization degree in heavy fermion CeIn3: A density functional theory analysis
Authors: Yazdani-Kachoei M. , Jalali-Asadabadi S. , Ahmad Iftikhar , Zarringhalam Kourosh
Published: August 2016

Two dramatic discrepancies between previous reliable experimental and ab initio DFT results are identified to occur at two different pressures in CeIn3, as discussed through the paper. We physically discuss sources of the phenomena and indicate how to select an appropriate functional for a given pressure. We show that these discrepancies are due to the inaccuracy of the DFT + U scheme with arbitrary Ueff and that hybrid functionals can provide better agreement with experimental data at zero pressure. The hybrid B3PW91 approach provides much better agreement with experimental data than the GGA + U. The DFT + U scheme proves to be rather unreliable since it yields completely unpredictable oscillations for the bulk modulus with increasing values of Ueff. Our B3PW91 results show that the best lattice parameter (bulk modulus) is obtained using a larger value of α parameter, 0.4 (0.3 or 0.2), than that of usually considered for the AFM phase. We find that for hybrid functionals, the amount of non-local exchange must first be calibrated before conclusions are drawn. Therefore, we first systematically optimize the α parameter and using it investigate the magnetic and electronic properties of the system. We present a theoretical interpretation of the experimental results and reproduce them satisfactorily.
Oestradiol synthesized by female neurons generates sex differences in neuritogenesis
Authors: Ruiz-Palmero Isabel , Ortiz-Rodriguez Ana , Melcangi Roberto Cosimo , Caruso Donatella , Garcia-Segura Luis M. , Rune Gabriele M. , Arevalo Maria-Angeles
Published: August 2016

Testosterone produced by the foetal testis is converted by male neurons to oestradiol, which masculinizes neuronal morphology. Female neurons are known to synthesize oestradiol in absence of exogenous testosterone. However, the role of neuronal oestradiol on the differentiation of foetal female neurons is unknown. Here we show that, due to endogenous neuronal oestradiol synthesis, female hippocampal neurons have higher expression of the neuritogenic protein Neurogenin 3 and enhanced neuritogenesis than males. Exogenous application of testosterone or its metabolite dihydrotestosterone increases Neurogenin 3 expression and promotes neuritogenesis in males, but reduces these parameters in females. Together our data indicate that gonadal-independent oestradiol synthesis by female neurons participates in the generation of sex differences in hippocampal neuronal development.
A Simple Paper-Based Colorimetric Device for Rapid Mercury(II) Assay
Authors: Chen Weiwei , Fang Xueen , Li Hua , Cao Hongmei , Kong Jilie
Published: August 2016

Contamination of the environment by mercury(II) ions (Hg2+) poses a serious threat to human health and ecosystems. Up to now, many reported Hg2+ sensors require complex procedures, long measurement times and sophisticated instrumentation. We have developed a simple, rapid, low cost and naked-eye quantitative method for Hg2+ environmental analysis using a paper-based colorimetric device (PCD). The sample solution to which platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) have been added is dispensed to the detection zone on the PCD, where the 3,3,5,5-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) substrate has been pre-loaded. The PtNPs effect a rapid oxidization of TMB, inducing blue colorization on the PCD. However, Hg2+ in the solution rapidly interact with the PtNPs, suppressing the oxidation capacity and hence causing a decrease in blue intensity, which can be observed directly by the naked eye. Moreover, Hg2+ at concentrations as low as 0.01 uM, can be successfully monitored using a fiber optic device, which gives a digital readout proportional to the intensity of the blue color change. This paper-based colorimetric device (PCD) shows great potential for field measurement of Hg2+.
Understanding the spatiotemporal pattern of grazing cattle movement
Authors: Zhao Kun , Jurdak Raja
Published: August 2016

Understanding the drivers of animal movement is significant for ecology and biology. Yet researchers have so far been unable to fully understand these drivers, largely due to low data resolution. In this study, we analyse a high-frequency movement dataset for a group of grazing cattle and investigate their spatiotemporal patterns using a simple two-state ‘stop-and-move’ mobility model. We find that the dispersal kernel in the moving state is best described by a mixture exponential distribution, indicating the hierarchical nature of the movement. On the other hand, the waiting time appears to be scale-invariant below a certain cut-off and is best described by a truncated power-law distribution, suggesting that the non-moving state is governed by time-varying dynamics. We explore possible explanations for the observed phenomena, covering factors that can play a role in the generation of mobility patterns, such as the context of grazing environment, the intrinsic decision-making mechanism or the energy status of different activities. In particular, we propose a new hypothesis that the underlying movement pattern can be attributed to the most probable observable energy status under the maximum entropy configuration. These results are not only valuable for modelling cattle movement but also provide new insights for understanding the underlying biological basis of grazing behaviour.
Distribution patterns of phthalic acid esters in soil particle-size fractions determine biouptake in soil-cereal crop systems
Authors: Tan Wenbing , Zhang Yuan , He Xiaosong , Xi Beidou , Gao Rutai , Mao Xuhui , Huang Caihong , Zhang Hui , Li Dan , Liang Qiong , Cui Dongyu , Alshawabkeh Akram N.
Published: August 2016

The use of wastewater irrigation for food crops can lead to presence of bioavailable phthalic acid esters (PAEs) in soils, which increase the potential for human exposure and adverse carcinogenic and non-cancer health effects. This study presents the first investigation of the occurrence and distribution of PAEs in a maize-wheat double-cropping system in a wastewater-irrigated area in the North China Plain. PAE levels in maize and wheat were found to be mainly attributed to PAE stores in soil coarse (250–2000 μm) and fine sand (53–250 μm) fractions. Soil particle-size fractions with higher bioavailability (i.e., coarse and fine sands) showed greater influence on PAE congener bioconcentration factors compared to PAE molecular structures for both maize and wheat tissues. More PAEs were allocated to maize and wheat grains with increased soil PAE storages from wastewater irrigation. Additional findings showed that levels of both non-cancer and carcinogenic risk for PAE congeners in wheat were higher than those in maize, suggesting that wheat food security should be prioritized. In conclusion, increased soil PAE concentrations specifically in maize and wheat grains indicate that wastewater irrigation can pose a contamination threat to food resources.
Nest predation risk influences a cavity-nesting passerine during the post-hatching care period
Authors: Yoon Jongmin , Kim Byung-Su , Joo Eun-Jin , Park Shi-Ryong
Published: August 2016

Some nest predators visually assess parental activities to locate a prey nest, whereas parents modify fitness-related traits to reduce the probability of nest predation, and/or nestlings fledge early to escape the risky nest environment. Here, we experimentally tested if the parental and fledging behaviours of oriental tits (Parus minor) that bred in the nest-box varied with cavity conditions associated with nest predation risk during the nestling period. The entrance of experimental nest-boxes was enlarged to create a long-term risk soon after clutch competition. A short-term risk, using simulated playbacks with a coexisting control bird and avian nest predator sound, was simultaneously applied to the nest-boxes whether or not the long-term risk existed. We found that the parents reduced their hourly feeding trips, and the nestlings fledged early with the long-term risk, although the nest mortality of the two nest-box types was low and did not differ. While this study presents a portion of prey–predator interactions with the associated uncertainties, our results highlight that the entrance size of cavities for small hole-nesting birds may play an important role in determining their fitness-related traits depending upon the degree of perceived risk of nest predation.
Maximum limit to the number of myosin II motors participating in processive sliding of actin
Authors: Rastogi Khushboo , Puliyakodan Mohammed Shabeel , Pandey Vikas , Nath Sunil , Elangovan Ravikrishnan
Published: August 2016

In this work, we analysed processive sliding and breakage of actin filaments at various heavy meromyosin (HMM) densities and ATP concentrations in IVMA. We observed that with addition of ATP solution, the actin filaments fragmented stochastically; we then determined mean length and velocity of surviving actin filaments post breakage. Average filament length decreased with increase in HMM density at constant ATP and increased with increase in ATP concentration at constant HMM density. Using density of HMM molecules and length of actin, we estimated the number of HMM molecules per actin filament (N) that participate in processive sliding of actin. N is solely a function of ATP concentration: 88 ± 24 and 54 ± 22 HMM molecules (mean ± S.D.) at 2 mM and 0.1 mM ATP respectively. Processive sliding of actin filament was observed only when N lay within a minimum lower limit (Nmin) and a maximum upper limit (Nmax) to the number of HMM molecules. When N < Nmin the actin filament diffused away from the surface and processivity was lost and when N > Nmax the filament underwent breakage eventually and could not sustain processive sliding. We postulate this maximum upper limit arises due to increased number of strongly bound myosin heads.
Frequent interruptions of sedentary time modulates contraction- and insulin-stimulated glucose uptake pathways in muscle: Ancillary analysis from randomized clinical trials
Authors: Bergouignan Audrey , Latouche Celine , Heywood Sarah , Grace Megan S. , Reddy-Luthmoodoo Medini , Natoli Alaina K. , Owen Neville , Dunstan David W. , Kingwell Bronwyn A.
Published: August 2016

Epidemiological studies have observed associations between frequent interruptions of sitting time with physical activity bouts and beneficial metabolic outcomes, even in individuals who regularly exercise. Frequent interruptions to prolonged sitting reduce postprandial plasma glucose. Here we studied potential skeletal muscle mechanisms accounting for this improved control of glycemia in overweight adults under conditions of one day uninterrupted sitting and sitting interrupted with light-intensity or moderate-intensity walking every 20-min (n = 8); and, after three days of either uninterrupted sitting or light-intensity walking interruptions (n = 5). Contraction- and insulin-mediated glucose uptake signaling pathways as well as changes in oxidative phosphorylation proteins were examined. We showed that 1) both interventions reduce postprandial glucose concentration, 2) acute interruptions to sitting over one day stimulate the contraction-mediated glucose uptake pathway, 3) both acute interruptions to sitting with moderate-intensity activity over one day and light-intensity activity over three days induce a transition to modulation of the insulin-signaling pathway, in association with increased capacity for glucose transport. Only the moderate-intensity interruptions resulted in greater capacity for glycogen synthesis and likely for ATP production. These observations contribute to a mechanistic explanation of improved postprandial glucose metabolism with regular interruptions to sitting time, a promising preventive strategy for metabolic diseases.
Induction of renal senescence marker protein-30 (SMP30) expression by testosterone and its contribution to urinary calcium absorption in male rats
Authors: Lin Po-Han , Jian Cai-Yun , Chou Jou-Chun , Chen Chien-Wei , Chen Chih-Chieh , Soong Christina , Hu Sindy , Lieu Fu-Kong , Wang Paulus S. , Wang Shyi-Wu
Published: August 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate the involvement of androgen, mainly testosterone, in the expression of renal senescence marker protein-30 (SMP30) in male rats. We found that the renal SMP30 expression was up-regulated by endogenous testosterone stimulation during puberty. Interestingly, androgen-deficient orchidectomized (ORX) rats exhibited lower SMP30 mRNA and protein expression in the kidney, and that was restored by testosterone propionate (TP) replacement. Abrogation of androgen receptor (AR) activity by co-treatment with flutamide abolished testosterone-induced SMP30 expression in the kidney as well as in the NRK52E cells. However, SMP30 expression was unaltered in the liver of ORX rats. We also showed a positive correlation between renal SMP30 expression and plasma testosterone level during the aging process. TP-induced SMP30 expression in ovariectomized (OVX) rats was observed and was an evidence to explain the gender difference of SMP30 levels. Immunofluorescence assay showed that renal SMP30 was specifically expressed in the proximal tubular segments of the kidney. The urinary Ca2+ level was increased in both ORX and male aging rats. Taken together, our results indicate a novel role of testosterone in regulating SMP30 expression specifically in the kidney to contribute to urinary calcium absorption.
Aberrant expression of miR-153 is associated with overexpression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α in refractory epilepsy
Authors: Li Yaohua , Huang Cheng , Feng Peimin , Jiang Yanping , Wang Wei , Zhou Dong , Chen Lei
Published: August 2016

Evidence suggest that overexpression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) is linked to multidrug resistance of epilepsy. Here we explored whether aberrant expression of HIF-1α is regulated by miRNAs. Genome-wide microRNA expression profiling was performed on temporal cortex resected from mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (mTLE) patients and age-matched controls. miRNAs that are putative regulator of HIF-1α were predicted via target scan and confirmed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Mimics or miRNA morpholino inhibitors were transfected in astrocytes and luciferase reporter assay was applied to detect HIF-11α expression. Microarray profiling identified down-regulated miR-153 as a putative regulator of HIF-1α in temporal cortex resected from surgical mTLE patients. RT-qPCR confirmed down-regulation of miR-153 in plasma of mTLE patients in an independent validation cohort. Knockdown of miR-153 significantly enhanced expression of HIF-1α while forced expression of miR-153 dramatically inhibited HIF-1α expression in pharmacoresistant astrocyte model. Luciferase assay established that miR-153 might inhibit HIF-1α expression via directly targeting two binding sites in the 3′UTR region of HIF-1α transcript. These data suggest that down-regulation of miR-153 may contribute to enhanced expression of HIF-1α in mTLE and serve as a novel biomarker and treatment target for epilepsy.
PAFR activation of NF-κB p65 or p105 precursor dictates pro- and anti-inflammatory responses during TLR activation in murine macrophages
Authors: Ishizuka Edson K. , Filgueiras Luciano Ribeiro , Rios Francisco J. , Serezani Carlos H. , Jancar Sonia
Published: August 2016

Platelet-activating factor receptor (PAFR) is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) implicated in many diseases. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play a critical role in shaping innate and adaptive immune responses. In this study, we investigated whether PAFR signaling changes the macrophages responsiveness to agonists of TLR2 (Pam3Cys), TLR4 (LPS), and TLR3 agonist Poly(I:C). Exogenous PAF inhibited the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-12p40, IL-6, and TNF-α) and increased anti-inflammatory IL-10 in macrophages challenged with Pam3Cys and LPS, but not with Poly (I:C). PAF did not affect mRNA expression of MyD88, suggesting that PAF acts downstream the adaptor. PAF inhibited LPS-induced phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 and increased NF-κB p105 phosphorylation, which is processed in the proteasome to generate p50 subunit. The PAF potentiation of IL-10 production was dependent on proteasome processing but independent of NF-κB transactivation domain. Inhibition of p50 abolished the PAF-induced IL-10 production. These findings indicate that the impaired transcriptional activity of the p65 subunit and the enhanced p105 phosphorylation induced by PAF are responsible for down regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and up regulation of IL-10, respectively, in LPS-challenged macrophages. Together, our data unveil a heretofore unrecognized role for PAFR in modulating activation of NF-κB in macrophages.
Weakening of Indian Summer Monsoon Rainfall due to Changes in Land Use Land Cover
Authors: Paul Supantha , Ghosh Subimal , Oglesby Robert , Pathak Amey , Chandrasekharan Anita , Ramsankaran RAAJ
Published: August 2016

Weakening of Indian summer monsoon rainfall (ISMR) is traditionally linked with large-scale perturbations and circulations. However, the impacts of local changes in land use and land cover (LULC) on ISMR have yet to be explored. Here, we analyzed this topic using the regional Weather Research and Forecasting model with European Center for Medium range Weather Forecast (ECMWF) reanalysis data for the years 2000–2010 as a boundary condition and with LULC data from 1987 and 2005. The differences in LULC between 1987 and 2005 showed deforestation with conversion of forest land to crop land, though the magnitude of such conversion is uncertain because of the coarse resolution of satellite images and use of differential sources and methods for data extraction. We performed a sensitivity analysis to understand the impacts of large-scale deforestation in India on monsoon precipitation and found such impacts are similar to the observed changes in terms of spatial patterns and magnitude. We found that deforestation results in weakening of the ISMR because of the decrease in evapotranspiration and subsequent decrease in the recycled component of precipitation.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: PPP1, a plant-specific regulator of transcription controls Arabidopsis development and PIN expression
Authors: Benjamins René , Barbez Elke , Ortbauer Martina , Terpstra Inez , Lucyshyn Doris , Moulinier-Anzola Jeanette , Khan Muhammad Asaf , Leitner Johannes , Malenica Nenad , Butt Haroon , Korbei Barbara , Scheres Ben , Kleine-Vehn Jürgen , Luschnig Christian
Published: August 2016

Directional transport of auxin is essential for plant development, with PIN auxin transport proteins representing an integral part of the machinery that controls hormone distribution. However, unlike the rapidly emerging framework of molecular determinants regulating PIN protein abundance and subcellular localization, insights into mechanisms controlling PIN transcription are still limited. Here we describe PIN2 PROMOTER BINDING PROTEIN 1 (PPP1), an evolutionary conserved plant-specific DNA binding protein that acts on transcription of PIN genes. Consistent with PPP1 DNA-binding activity, PPP1 reporter proteins are nuclear localized and analysis of PPP1 null alleles and knockdown lines indicated a function as a positive regulator of PIN expression. Furthermore, we show that ppp1 pleiotropic mutant phenotypes are partially reverted by PIN overexpression, and results are presented that underline a role of PPP1-PIN promoter interaction in PIN expression control. Collectively, our findings identify an elementary, thus far unknown, plant-specific DNA-binding protein required for post-embryonic plant development, in general, and correct expression of PIN genes, in particular.
Sulforaphane protects against rotenone-induced neurotoxicity in vivo: Involvement of the mTOR, Nrf2 and autophagy pathways
Authors: Zhou Qian , Chen Bin , Wang Xindong , Wu Lixin , Yang Yang , Cheng Xiaolan , Hu Zhengli , Cai Xueting , Yang Jie , Sun Xiaoyan , Lu Wuguang , Yan Huaijiang , Chen Jiao , Ye Juan , Shen Jianping , Cao Peng
Published: August 2016

Sulforaphane, a naturally occurring compound found in cruciferous vegetables, has been shown to be neuroprotective in several neurological disorders. In this study, we sought to investigate the potential protective effects and associated molecular mechanisms of sulforaphane in an in vivo Parkinson’s disease (PD) model, based on rotenone-mediated neurotoxicity. Our results showed that sulforaphane inhibited rotenone-induced locomotor activity deficiency and dopaminergic neuronal loss. Additionally, sulforaphane treatment inhibited the rotenone-induced reactive oxygen species production, malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation and resulted in an increased level of total glutathione and reduced glutathione (GSH): oxidized glutathione (GSSG) in the brain. Western blot analysis illustrated that sulforaphane increased the expression of nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase (NQO1), the latter two of which are anti-oxidative enzymes. Moreover, sulforaphane treatment significantly attenuated rotenone-inhibited mTOR-mediated p70S6K and 4E-BP1 signalling pathway, as well as neuronal apoptosis. In addition, sulforaphane rescued rotenone-inhibited autophagy, as detected by LC3-II. Collectively, these findings demonstrated that sulforaphane exert neuroprotective effect involving Nrf2-dependent reductions in oxidative stress, mTOR-dependent inhibition of neuronal apoptosis and the restoration of normal autophagy. Sulforaphane appears to be a promising compound with neuroprotective properties that may play an important role in preventing PD.
TGF-β1 promotes scar fibroblasts proliferation and transdifferentiation via up-regulating MicroRNA-21
Authors: Liu Ying , Li Yue , Li Ning , Teng Wen , Wang Min , Zhang Yingbo , Xiao Zhibo
Published: August 2016

TGF-β1, upregulated in keloid tissue, promotes the proliferation, collagen formation and differentiation of dermal fibroblasts. miR-21 is one of microRNAs first found in human genome. The aim of our study is to explore the mechanisms of miR-21 in TGF-β1-induced scar fibroblasts proliferation and transdifferentiation. In the present study, first we found that TGF-β1 promoted scar fibroblasts proliferation and transdifferentiation via up-regulating miR-21 expression, which could be attenuated when miR-21 was inhibited. Overexpression of miR-21 had similar effect as TGF-β1 on proliferation and transdifferentiation. Additionally, TGF-β1 increased the expressions and activities of MMP2 and MMP9 in keloid fibroblasts, which was suppressed by miR-21 inhibition. Finally, the results demonstrated that PTEN/AKT signaling pathway played important role in TGF-β1-induced transdifferentiation. In conclusion, our study suggests that TGF-β1 promotes keloid fibroblasts proliferation and transdifferentiation via up-regulation of miR-21 and PTEN/AKT signalling pathway plays important role in this process, which provides a potential theoretical basis for clinical treatment of skin scars.
Low-Temperature Microwave Pyrolysis and Large Scale Microwave Applications
Authors: Fan Jiajun , Budarin Vitaliy , Gronnow Mark J. , Clark James H.
Published: August 2016

The following chapter discusses the potential uses of microwave technology in the low temperature decomposition of biologically derived materials and its application on both laboratory and commercial scales. In so doing, we examine the historic development of microwave technology from its origins (with Kassner in 1937) to the present day. The mechanism of microwave heating is examined, with specific attention given to dielectric losses and the dipolar polarisation mechanism, with further emphasis on the changing interaction of microwaves with increased material temperature. Further to this, the specific application of microwaves on the laboratory scale is reviewed with focus given to the microwave decomposition of the constituent components of biomass (cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin) and real life examples, such as the decomposition of barley, wheat, wood, etc. The resulting decomposition materials and chemicals are reviewed, for example the production of levoglucosan and levoglucosenone from cellulose. Finally, consideration is given to current large scale commercial applications of microwave technology, looking at both 915 MHz and 2450 MHz applications, which include microwave drying, exfoliated vermiculite, chemical extraction and pasteurisation. Specific attention is given to large scale microwave activation of biomass for the production of bio-chars and bio-oils.
Photo-enhanced oxidizability of tetrazolium salts and its impact on superoxide assaying
Authors: Zhao Jianfeng , Zhang Bowu , Li Jingye , Liu Yancheng , Wang Wenfeng
Published: August 2016

Here, the photo-enhanced oxidizability of tetrazolium salts and its effect on photo-induced superoxide assaying were found for the first time.
Waste not want not: life cycle implications of gold recovery and recycling from nanowaste
Authors: Pati Paramjeet , McGinnis Sean , Vikesland Peter J.
Published: August 2016

Selective recovery of gold from nanowaste.
Aluminal speciation in the crystal nucleus: a mass spectral interpretation
Authors: Hare Alan Stewart
Published: August 2016

Classical constructions are revisited in the light of aperiodic tiling. Recent experimental observations are re-interpreted.
Enhanced performance of blue polymer light-emitting diodes by incorporation of Ag nanoparticles through the ligand-exchange process
Authors: Kim Young Yun , Hyun Woo Jin , Park Keum Hwan , Lee Yong Guk , Lee Jaemin , Park O Ok
Published: August 2016

The efficiency of polymer light-emitting diodes was improved by synergistic effect of enhanced hole transport from mercaptoacids molecules and resonant coupling of Ag NPs introduced by ligand-exchange process.
Gender, aging and longevity in humans: an update of an intriguing/neglected scenario paving the way to a gender-specific medicine
Authors: Ostan Rita , Monti Daniela , Gueresi Paola , Bussolotto Mauro , Franceschi Claudio , Baggio Giovannella
Published: August 2016

Data showing a remarkable gender difference in life expectancy and mortality, including survival to extreme age, are reviewed starting from clinical and demographic data and stressing the importance of a comprehensive historical perspective and a gene–environment/lifestyle interaction. Gender difference regarding prevalence and incidence of the most important age-related diseases, such as cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, Type 2 diabetes, disability, autoimmunity and infections, are reviewed and updated with particular attention to the role of the immune system and immunosenescence. On the whole, gender differences appear to be pervasive and still poorly considered and investigated despite their biomedical relevance. The basic biological mechanisms responsible for gender differences in aging and longevity are quite complex and still poorly understood. The present review focuses on centenarians and their offspring as a model of healthy aging and summarizes available knowledge on three basic biological phenomena, i.e. age-related X chromosome inactivation skewing, gut microbiome changes and maternally inherited mitochondrial DNA genetic variants. In conclusion, an appropriate gender-specific medicine approach is urgently needed and should be systematically pursued in studies on healthy aging, longevity and age-related diseases, in a globalized world characterized by great gender differences which have a high impact on health and diseases.