bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spectral characteristics of background error covariance and multiscale data assimilation
Authors: Li Zhijin , Cheng Xiaoping , Gustafson Jr. William I. , Vogelmann Andrew M.
Published: April 2016

The spatial resolutions of numerical atmospheric and oceanic circulation models have steadily increased over the past decades. Horizontal grid spacing down to the order of 1 km is now often used to resolve cloud systems in the atmosphere and sub‐mesoscale circulation systems in the ocean. These fine resolution models encompass a wide range of temporal and spatial scales, across which dynamical and statistical properties vary. In particular, dynamic flow systems at small scales can be spatially localized and temporarily intermittent. Difficulties of current data assimilation algorithms for such fine resolution models are numerically and theoretically examined. An analysis shows that the background error correlation length scale is larger than 75 km for streamfunctions and is larger than 25 km for water vapor mixing ratios, even for a 2‐km resolution model. A theoretical analysis suggests that such correlation length scales prevent the currently used data assimilation schemes from constraining spatial scales smaller than 150 km for streamfunctions and 50 km for water vapor mixing ratios. These results highlight the need to fundamentally modify currently used data assimilation algorithms for assimilating high‐resolution observations into the aforementioned fine resolution models. Within the framework of four‐dimensional variational data assimilation, a multiscale methodology based on scale decomposition is suggested and challenges are discussed. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Roots of Turn‐Taking in the Neonatal Period
Authors: Dominguez S. , Devouche E. , Apter G. , Gratier M.
Published: April 2016

Human newborns are cognitively and socially competent. Although they are sensitive to the presence of a social partner, little is known on the emergence of the ability to partake in social interaction. In this study we aimed to explore the roots of turn‐taking in the neonatal period. We wished to highlight the way mothers' and newborns' vocalizations are organized in relation to each other in a face‐to‐face communication situation. We observed 15 mothers and their 2 to 4‐day‐old newborns while mothers were instructed to speak to them and infants were in a receptive behavioural state. We examined the temporal organization of maternal and newborn vocalization. Our results show that of all newborn vocalizations analysed, one third consisted of overlapping vocalizations with a maternal vocalization. Furthermore, among the 119 newborn vocalizations that followed a maternal vocalization, 68.9% occurred within the first second, and 26.9% were latched (occurring within the first 50 ms). Indeed our study suggests that a 1‐s window would be the correct window to appreciate social contingency in the neonatal period. Our study provides evidence that a turn‐taking ability is already present at birth suggesting that turn taking, which depends on a tight coordination between interacting individuals, is a precocious human ability. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biological Variation and Reference Change Value Data for Serum Neuron‐Specific Enolase in a Turkish Population
Authors: Matyar Selcuk , Goruroglu Ozturk Ozlem , Ziyanoglu Karacor Esin , Yuzbasioglu Ariyurek Sedefgul , Sahin Gulhan , Kibar Filiz , Yaman Akgun , Inal Tamer
Published: April 2016

Background

Neuron‐specific enolase (NSE) is a recognized biomarker for the assessment of cerebral injury in neurological disorders. This study aims to report a definitive assessment of the biological variation (BV) components of this biomarker, including within‐subject BV (CVI), between‐subject BV (CVG), index of individuality (II), and reference change value (RCV), in a cohort of Turkish participants using an experimental protocol.

Methods

Six blood specimens were collected from each of the 13 apparently healthy volunteers (seven women, six men; ranging in age from 23 to 36) on the same day, every 2 weeks for 2 months. Serum specimens were stored at −20°C until analysis. Neuron‐specific enolase levels were evaluated in serum samples using an electrochemiluminescence (ECLIA) immunoassay kit with a Roche Cobas e 411 auto‐analyser. ANOVA test was used to calculate the variations.

Results

The CVI and CVG for NSE were 21.5% and 28.8%, respectively. Analytical variation (CVA) was calculated as 10.2%. Additionally, II and RCV were calculated as 0.74 and 66% (95% confident interval, CI), respectively.

Conclusion

As the performance index (PI) was found to be less than 2 (PI = 0.95), it is concluded that the NSE measurements have a desirable performance for analytical imprecision. Since the II was found to be less than 1 (II: 0.74), the reference values will be of little use. Thus, RCV would provide better information for deciding whether a significant change has occurred.
Mechanism and Parameters Controlling the Decomposition Kinetics of Na2SiF6 Powder to SiF4
Authors: Soltani N. , Pech‐Canul M. I. , González L. A. , Bahrami A.
Published: April 2016

Sodium hexafluorosilicate (Na2SiF6) powder has been used as a silicon source for formation of Si3N4 coatings by the hybrid precursor system‐chemical vapor deposition (HYSY‐CVD) route. The quantitative effect of processing time, temperature, gas flow rate, and process atmosphere (N2 and N2:5% NH3) upon the fractional weight loss during the decomposition of Na2SiF6 was studied using a standard L9 Taguchi experimental design and analysis of variance. The decomposition kinetics of Na2SiF6(s) was studied theoretically and experimentally in the temperature range of 550–650ºC by applying the shrinking core model. It was found that regardless of atmosphere type, the reaction order is n ≈ 0.12 and that a two‐stage mixed mechanism consisting of chemical reaction and boundary layer gas transfer controls the decomposition rate. The determined fractional weight loss during Na2SiF6 decomposition in nitrogen atmosphere is about 1.05–1.5 orders of magnitude greater than that in N2:NH3. The gas flow rate affects the dissociation activation energy, being of 121, 109, and 94 kJ/mol in N2 and of 140, 120, and 115 kJ/mol in N2:NH3, for the flow rates of 20, 60, and 100 cm3/min, respectively, in both atmosphere types. A good agreement is observed by comparing experimental weight loss data with model predictions.
Percolation in Two‐Dimensional Copolymer‐Solvent Systems
Authors: Kuriata Aleksander , Polanowski Piotr , Sikorski Andrzej
Published: April 2016

In this work, the structure of a strictly 2D dense polymer film for some model copolymer systems: diblock, triblock, and random copolymers is studied. An idealized model of these macromolecular systems is developed where positions of polymer beads are restricted to vertices of a simple cubic lattice and chains are under good solvent conditions (the excluded volume is the only interaction between beads of the chain and solvent molecules). The properties of the system are determined by means of Monte Carlo simulations with a sampling algorithm based on chain's local cooperative changes of conformation. Scaling of the chain size is studied and the influence of the polymer concentration on the chain's size and shape is discussed. The differences and similarities in the behavior of the percolation thresholds of one component in chains with different bead sequences are also shown and discussed. The percolation threshold is found to be weakly dependent on the chain length and more sensitive to the total polymer concentration.

image
Further Investigations of the New Structural Model of PANI/CSA Conducting Polymer System
Authors: Śniechowski Maciej , Kozik Tomasz , Niedźwiedź Wojciech , Łużny Wojciech
Published: April 2016

In a recent paper, a new structural model of polyaniline (PANI) doped with camphorsulfonic acid (CSA) obtained by molecular dynamics simulations is proposed. This model is characterized by double layers of PANI separated by double layers of CSA. Here some new evidences for the correctness of the new model are shown, drawn from the comparison of its calculated diffraction patterns with experimental data. First, the powder diffraction patterns are calculated from the Debye formula and by a custom algorithm. This makes it possible to describe the anisotropy of all diffraction peaks by giving their pole figures. The orientations of all crystal planes and their indexations (obtained independently from the average orthorhombic unit cell proposed for the model structure) are consistent, and this description agrees well with already published results of experimental study of PANI/CSA thin films performed with the use of synchrotron radiation surface diffraction technique.

image
Confocal Scanning Laser Microscopic Study of the RDX Defect Structure in Deformed Polymer‐Bonded Explosives
Authors: van der Heijden Antoine E. D. M. , Bouma Richard H. B.
Published: April 2016

The influence of an explosion‐driven deformation on the defect structure in RDX crystals embedded in a polymer‐bonded explosive was investigated by means of confocal scanning laser microscopy. The images were compared to the defect structure in the as‐received RDX grades, embedded in an epoxy resin. In this way it is possible to qualitatively analyze the changes in defect structure of the RDX crystals that were induced by the explosion‐driven deformation. For the first time, these data therefore provide experimental confirmation of how shock waves mechanically interact with energetic crystals – a topic that, up to now, was only explored by means of simulations.
Foundations for using linear temporal logic in Event-B refinement
Authors: Hoang Thai Son , Schneider Steve , Treharne Helen , Williams David M.
Published: April 2016

In this paper we present a new way of reconciling Event-B refinement with linear temporal logic (LTL) properties. In particular, the results presented in this paper allow properties to be established for abstract system models, and identify conditions to ensure that the properties (suitably translated) continue to hold as those models are developed through refinement. There are several novel elements to this achievement: (1) we identify conditions that allow LTL properties to be mapped across refinement chains; (2) we provide translations of LTL predicates to reflect the introduction through refinement of new events and the renaming and splitting of existing events; (3) we do this for an extended version of LTL particularly suited to Event-B, including state predicates and enabledness of events, which can be model-checked at the abstract level. Our results are more general than any previous work in this area, covering liveness in the context of anticipated events, and relaxing constraints between adjacent refinement levels. The approach is illustrated with a case study. This enables designers to develop event based models and to consider their execution patterns so that liveness and fairness properties can be verified for Event-B systems.
Perforated Peptic Ulcer Repair: Factors Predicting Conversion in Laparoscopy and Postoperative Septic Complications
Authors: Muller Markus K. , Wrann Simon , Widmer Jeannette , Klasen Jennifer , Weber Markus , Hahnloser Dieter
Published: April 2016

Objective

The surgical treatment for perforated peptic ulcers can be safely performed laparoscopically. The aim of the study was to define simple predictive factors for conversion and septic complications.

Methods

This retrospective case–control study analyzed patients treated with either laparoscopic surgery or laparotomy for perforated peptic ulcers.

Results

A total of 71 patients were analyzed. Laparoscopically operated patients had a shorter hospital stay (13.7 vs. 15.1 days). In an intention‐to‐treat analysis, patients with conversion to open surgery (analyzed as subgroup from laparoscopic approach group) showed no prolonged hospital stay (15.3 days) compared to patients with a primary open approach. Complication and mortality rates were not different between the groups. The statistical analysis identified four intraoperative risk factors for conversion: Mannheim peritonitis index (MPI) > 21 (p = 0.02), generalized peritonitis (p = 0.04), adhesions, and perforations located in a region other than the duodenal anterior wall. We found seven predictive factors for septic complications: age >70 (p = 0.02), cardiopulmonary disease (p = 0.04), ASA > 3 (p = 0.002), CRP > 100 (p = 0.005), duration of symptoms >24 h (p = 0.02), MPI > 21(p = 0.008), and generalized peritonitis (p = 0.02).

Conclusion

Our data suggest that a primary laparoscopic approach has no disadvantages. Factors necessitating conversions emerged during the procedure inhibiting a preoperative selection. Factors suggesting imminent septic complications can be assessed preoperatively. An assessment of the proposed parameters may help optimize the management of possible septic complications.
Comparison of Three Methods for Extraction of Volatile Lipid Oxidation Products from Food Matrices for GC–MS Analysis
Authors: Thomsen Birgitte Raagaard , Yesiltas Betül , Sørensen Ann‐Dorit Moltke , Hermund Ditte Baun , Glastrup Jens , Jacobsen Charlotte
Published: April 2016

The aim of this study was to compare three different collection methods; purge and trap, solid phase micro extraction and automated dynamic headspace/thermal desorption, all followed by GC–MS analysis used for the measurements of concentrations of volatile oxidation products in three different food matrices, namely oil, emulsion and milk. The linearity ranges of calibration curves obtained by the three different methods were compared for oil samples. Overall, the results showed that the three collection methods were comparable, although there were large differences in the linearity range of the calibration curves depending on the collection method. However, some challenges were observed for solid phase micro extraction and automated dynamic headspace/thermal desorption, namely, competition problems and overestimation of concentration by calibration curves, respectively. Based on the results, we suggest mainly to apply solid phase micro extraction on simple matrices and to be cautious with more complex matrices such as enriched milk and highly oxidized oils. Thereby, the study confirmed some challenges observed by other authors regarding competition problems on the fiber when using solid phase micro extraction. Furthermore, we observed that purge and trap, and automated dynamic headspace/thermal desorption were excellent for extraction of volatile compounds in all three matrices. However, automated dynamic headspace/thermal desorption calibration curves did provide an overestimation for oil samples so results must be interpreted with caution.
The ‘triradiate bump’: A novel radiographic sign that may confound assessment of acetabular retroversion
Authors: Morris William Z. , Li Ryan T. , Liu Raymond W.
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The triradiate cartilage transiently projects medially within the pelvic brim around the time of triradiate closure, mimicking the ischial spine sign. The purpose of this study was to characterize this newly identified radiographic sign using a longitudinal radiographic study.

Methods

We identified 72 subjects from a longitudinal radiographic study of healthy adolescents, each with at least four consecutive, annual anterior−posterior radiographs of the left hip, including physeal closure. Images were reviewed to identify the presence of the triradiate bump, the year it was most prominent, and the number of years relative to triradiate closure after which it had completely remodeled.

Results

The transient medial projection of the triradiate cartilage (triradiate bump) was identified in 26/40 (65 %) females and 22/32 (69 %) males ( p = 0.74). The medial projection of the triradiate cartilage was most prominent at 10.8 ± 0.8 years of age in females and 12.6 ± 0.7 years of age in males ( p < 0.001). The triradiate cartilage projected medially a mean of 4.7 ± 0.8 or 5.1 ± 1.4 mm for females and males, respectively ( p = 0.29), but remodeled completely in all cases around triradiate closure.

Conclusions

The transient medial projection of the triradiate cartilage within the pelvic brim, the ‘triradiate bump sign’, is a common radiographic finding in healthy adolescents around the time of closure of the triradiate cartilage that may mimic the ischial spine sign. These two signs can be distinguished as the projection of the ischial spine is located more inferiorly within the pelvic brim and the triradiate bump has a horizontal limb of radiolucency extending to its medial border.
Ideas and Approaches for Quality‐Assessment and Performance‐Improvement Projects in Ambulatory Surgery Centers
Authors: Allison Jan
Published: April 2016

Identifying a performance‐improvement project can be a struggle when a facility's data demonstrate desirable performance. Quality‐improvement teams may be limiting their data collection to only required or traditional outcome indicators. Facility personnel may need guidance on how to broaden the vision to monitor for additional issues that affect the quality of care. This article focuses on approaches and indicators customary to the services and operations of an ambulatory surgery center, going beyond reviewing data from routine outcome measures and explaining the effect these ideas can have on improving quality of care. These approaches and indicators can enable personnel to identify and conduct quality‐assessment and performance‐improvement projects that affect patient safety, patient satisfaction, efficiency, and cost of care.
When Informality Advantages Women: Quota Networks, Electoral Rules and Candidate Selection in Mexico
Authors: Piscopo Jennifer M.
Published: April 2016

As gender quotas change the formal rules governing candidate selection, party leaders use informal practices in order to preserve the choicest candidacies for men. This article uses a critical case to highlight how the opposite also occurs. In Mexico, female elites built informal, cross-partisan networks that, in collaboration with state regulators, successfully eliminated political parties’ practices of allocating women the least-viable candidacies. Traditional party elites rely on informal tactics to secure the status quo, but female party members devise their own strategies to force changes to candidate selection, signalling that informality cannot be theorized as wholly negative for women.
A phenomenological model for fountain-top entrainment
Authors: Debugne Antoine L. R. , Hunt Gary R.
Published: April 2016

In theoretical treatments of turbulent fountains, the entrainment of ambient fluid into the top of the fountain, hereinafter fountain-top entrainment $Q_{top}$ ($\text{m}^{3}~\text{s}^{-1}$), has been neglected until now. This neglect, which modifies the energetic balance in a fountain, compromises the predictive ability of existing models. Our aim is to quantify $Q_{top}$ by shedding light on the physical processes that are responsible for fountain-top entrainment. First, estimates for $Q_{top}$ are obtained by applying, in turn, an entrainment closure in the vein of Morton et al. (Proc. R. Soc. Lond., vol. 234, 1956, pp. 1–23) and then of Shrinivas & Hunt (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 757, 2014, pp. 573–598) to the time-averaged fountain top. Unravelling the assumptions that underlie these approaches, we argue that neither capture the dynamical behaviour of the flow observed at the fountain top; the top being characterised by quasi-periodic fluctuations, during which large-scale eddies reverse and engulf parcels of ambient fluid into the fountain. Therefore, shifting our mindset to a periodical framework, we develop a new phenomenological model in which we emphasise the role of the fluctuations in entraining external fluid. Our model suggests that $Q_{top}$ is similar in magnitude to the volume flux supplied to the fountain top by the upflow ($Q_{u}$), i.e. $Q_{top}\sim Q_{u}$, in agreement with experimental evidence. We conclude by providing guidance on how to implement fountain-top entrainment in existing models of turbulent fountains.
Nutritional composition of school meals serving children from 7 to 36 months of age in municipal day-care centres in the metropolitan area of Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
Authors: Retondario Anabelle , Silva Débora Letícia Frizzi , Salgado Silvana Magalhães , Alves Márcia Aurelina de Oliveira , Ferreira Sila Mary Rodrigues
Published: April 2016

The Brazilian National School Feeding Program (PNAE) seeks to meet student’s nutritional needs during the period they remain in school. This study aimed to determine the nutritional composition of meals provided in municipal day-care centres serving children of 7–11 months (group A) and 12–36 months (group B) of age and to compare observed values with the PNAE’s and dietary reference intakes’ (DRI) recommendations. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 4 day-care centres in the metropolitan area of Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil, between June and November 2013. Food samples of six daily meals were collected during 20 non-consecutive days, totalling 120 samples. For each meal, average served and consumed portions were submitted for laboratory analysis of moisture, ash, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, dietary fibre, Na, Ca and Fe and compared with the PNAE’s and DRI’s values. No statistically significant difference was found between age groups (P=0·793) regarding portion sizes and nutritional composition. The same menu was offered to both groups in 95 % of the meals (n 114), although the groups’ nutritional needs were different. For group A, served meals met PNAE’s recommendations for energy, carbohydrates, proteins, Na and Ca content, and consumed portions provided 70 % of the nutritional needs for carbohydrates, proteins and Ca. For group B, served portions complied with the PNAE’s values for proteins, Na and Ca. Proteins and Na reached 70 % of the nutritional needs when consumed food was evaluated. School feeding in day-care centres partially meet PNAE’s guidelines and children’s nutritional requirements, contradicting the primary objective established by the national programme.
Redefining Exploitation: Self-Employed Workers’ Movements in India's Garments and Trash Collection Industries
Authors: Agarwala Rina
Published: April 2016

This article examines how self-employed workers are organizing in the garments and waste collection industries in India. Although the question of who is profiting from self-employed workers’ labor is complex, the cases outlined in this paper highlight telling instances of how some self-employed workers are organizing as workers. They are fighting labor exploitation by redefining the concept to include additional exploitation axes (from the state and middle class) and forms (including sexual). In doing so, they are redefining potential solutions, including identities and material benefits, to fit their unique needs. By expanding the category of “workers” beyond those defined by a narrow focus on a standard employer-employee relationship, these movements are also fighting exclusion from earlier labor protections by increasing the number of entitled beneficiaries. These struggles provide an important corrective to contemporary analyses of labor politics that focus too heavily on the precarious nature of employer-employee relationships and too little on broader definitions of work, exploitation, and protection. These broader definitions better represent the world's mass of vulnerable workers and are being articulated from below.
SOLVABLE LIE GROUPS DEFINABLE IN O-MINIMAL THEORIES
Authors: Conversano Annalisa , Onshuus Alf , Starchenko Sergei
Published: April 2016

In this paper, we completely characterize solvable real Lie groups definable in o-minimal expansions of the real field.
Online-Interventionsprogramme zur Reduzierung des Alkohol- und Cannabiskonsums – Ein Überblick über den aktuellen Forschungsstand
Authors: Tossmann Peter , Leuschner Fabian , Jonas Benjamin , Goecke Michaela , Lang Peter
Published: April 2016

Zusammenfassung. Hintergrund: In den vergangenen Jahren hat sich die Suchtprävention im Internet rasant entwickelt. Das augenscheinliche Potential von Online-Interventionen hat zur Entwicklung, Implementation und Evaluation unterschiedlichster Interventionsansätze geführt. Ziel: Die vorliegende Arbeit soll einen umfassenden Überblick über die Effektivität und die Gestaltung von Online-Interventionen zur Reduktion des Alkohol- und des Cannabiskonsum geben. Methode: Erkenntnisse zu Online-Interventionen in den Bereichen Alkohol- und Cannabiskonsum wurden im Rahmen einer systematischen Literaturrecherche in den Datenbanken Pubmed und Web of Knowledge zusammengetragen. Dabei wurden für jeden Bereich jeweils aktuelle Metaanalysen sowie ergänzend aktuelle Primärstudien recherchiert. Ergebnisse: In beiden Bereichen existieren inzwischen Metaanalysen zur Effektivität von Online-Interventionen. Ebenso wie ihr Aufbau, ihre Länge und der Grad der Interaktivität waren auch die Effektstärken sehr heterogen. Angaben zur allgemeinen Effektivität und zum Vergleich von unterschiedlichen Online-Interventionen sollten deshalb zurückhaltend interpretiert werden. Schlussfolgerung: Aufgrund der unübertroffenen Reichweite und der technischen Möglichkeiten haben Online-Interventionen, selbst bei geringen Effektstärken, das Potential, einen signifikanten Beitrag zur öffentlichen Gesundheitsförderung und Suchtprävention zu leisten.
Der Einfluss von Gruppenmitgliedschaften auf den Informationsaustausch mit digitalen Kommunikationsmedien
Authors: Landkammer Florian , Sassenberg Kai
Published: April 2016

Zusammenfassung. Digitale Medien sind zum zentralen Mittel des Informationsaustausches in Lern- und Arbeitskontexten geworden. Durch die Reduktion sozialer Hinweisreize während computervermittelter Kommunikation (cvK) kommt der Wahrnehmung sozialer Beziehungen davor eine besondere Bedeutung zu. Dieser Beitrag fasst Forschung zum computervermittelten Informationsaustausch zusammen und legt dabei zwei Schwerpunkte. Zum einen liefert er einen Überblick über Forschung zu sozialem Einfluss (d. h. Informationsrezeption) in cvK. Diese zeigt, dass cvK zu einer stärkeren Orientierung an vor der Kommunikation salienten Selbstaspekten (z. B. gemeinsame Gruppenmitgliedschaften) führt: Ist eine gemeinsame soziale Identität salient, kommt es zu mehr sozialem Einfluss, werden keine (positiven) sozialen Beziehungen wahrgenommen, kommt es zu weniger sozialem Einfluss sowie anderen egozentrischen Tendenzen. Zum anderen wird Forschung zusammengefasst, die belegt, dass die Salienz einer sozialen Identität in cvK die aus negativen Erwartungen, defensiven Selbstregulationsstrategien und sozialer Macht resultierenden egozentrischen Tendenzen kompensieren kann. Die gleichzeitige Berücksichtigung individueller und sozialer Aspekte des Selbst ist somit wesentlich, um Vorhersagen zum medienvermittelten Informationsaustausch treffen zu können.
Eating Less Meat, Wasting Less Food Could Save Water Worldwide
Authors: Stanley Sarah
Published: April 2016

In tandem, two strategies could lower water consumption by 28% and ensure better water supply for more than 600 million people.
Structural basis of oncogenic histone H3K27M inhibition of human polycomb repressive complex 2
Authors: Justin Neil , Zhang Ying , Tarricone Cataldo , Martin Stephen R. , Chen Shuyang , Underwood Elizabeth , De Marco Valeria , Haire Lesley F. , Walker Philip A. , Reinberg Danny , Wilson Jon R. , Gamblin Steven J.
Published: April 2016

Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) silences gene expression through trimethylation of K27 of histone H3 (H3K27me3) via its catalytic SET domain. A missense mutation in the substrate of PRC2, histone H3K27M, is associated with certain pediatric brain cancers and is linked to a global decrease of H3K27me3 in the affected cells thought to be mediated by inhibition of PRC2 activity. We present here the crystal structure of human PRC2 in complex with the inhibitory H3K27M peptide bound to the active site of the SET domain, with the methionine residue located in the pocket that normally accommodates the target lysine residue. The structure and binding studies suggest a mechanism for the oncogenic inhibition of H3K27M. The structure also reveals how binding of repressive marks, like H3K27me3, to the EED subunit of the complex leads to enhancement of the catalytic efficiency of the SET domain and thus the propagation of this repressive histone modification.
Low level off-road vehicle (ORV) traffic negatively impacts macroinvertebrate assemblages at sandy beaches in south-western Australia
Authors: Davies Rebecca , Speldewinde Peter C. , Stewart Barbara A.
Published: April 2016

Off-road vehicle use is arguably one of the most environmentally damaging human activities undertaken on sandy beaches worldwide. Existing studies focused on areas of high traffic volumes have demonstrated significantly lower abundance, diversity and species richness of fauna in zones where traffic is concentrated. The impact of lower traffic volumes is unknown. This study aimed to investigate the impacts of relatively low-level vehicle traffic on sandy beach fauna by sampling invertebrate communities at eight beaches located in south-western Australia. We found that even low-level vehicle traffic negatively impacts the physical beach environment and consequently, the ability of many species to survive in this habitat in the face of this disturbance. Compaction, rutting and displacement of the sand matrix were observed over a large area, resulting in significant decreases in species diversity and density and measurable shifts in community structure on beaches that experienced off-road vehicle traffic. Communities at impact sites did not display seasonal recovery as traffic was not significantly different between seasons. Given a choice between either reducing traffic volumes, or excluding ORV traffic from beaches, our results suggest that the latter would be more appropriate when the retention of ecological integrity is the objective.
Two types of interneurons in the mouse lateral geniculate nucleus are characterized by different h-current density
Authors: Leist Michael , Datunashvilli Maia , Kanyshkova Tatyana , Zobeiri Mehrnoush , Aissaoui Ania , Cerina Manuela , Romanelli Maria Novella , Pape Hans-Christian , Budde Thomas
Published: April 2016

Although hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated cation (HCN) channels and the corresponding h-current (Ih) have been shown to fundamentally shape the activity pattern in the thalamocortical network, little is known about their function in local circuit GABAergic interneurons (IN) of the dorsal part of the lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN). By combining electrophysiological, molecular biological, immunohistochemical and cluster analysis, we characterized the properties of Ih and the expression profile of HCN channels in IN. Passive and active electrophysiological properties of IN differed. Two subclasses of IN were resolved by unsupervised cluster analysis. Small cells were characterized by depolarized resting membrane potentials (RMP), stronger anomalous rectification, higher firing frequency of faster action potentials (APs), appearance of rebound bursting, and higher Ih current density compared to the large IN. The depolarization exerted by sustained HCN channel activity facilitated neuronal firing. In addition to cyclic nucleotides, Ih in IN was modulated by PIP2 probably based on the abundant expression of the HCN3 isoform. Furthermore, only IN with larger cell diameters expressed neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS). It is discussed that Ih in IN is modulated by neurotransmitters present in the thalamus and that the specific properties of Ih in these cells closely reflect their modulatory options.
Lovastatin causes FaDu hypopharyngeal carcinoma cell death via AMPK-p63-survivin signaling cascade
Authors: Yen Chia-Sheng , Chen Jung-Chien , Chang Yi-Fang , Hsu Ya-Fen , Chiu Pei-Ting , Shiue Ching , Chuang Yu-Fan , Ou George , Hsu Ming-Jen
Published: April 2016

Statins are used widely to lower serum cholesterol and the incidence of cardiovascular diseases. Growing evidence shows that statins also exhibit beneficial effects against cancers. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanisms involved in lovastatin-induced cell death in Fadu hypopharyngeal carcinoma cells. Lovastatin caused cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in FaDu cells. Lovastatin increased p21cip/Waf1 level while the survivin level was decreased in the presence of lovastatin. Survivin siRNA reduced cell viability and induced cell apoptosis in FaDu cells. Lovastatin induced phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and transcription factor p63. Lovastatin also caused p63 acetylation and increased p63 binding to survivin promoter region in FaDu cells. AMPK-p38MAPK signaling blockade abrogated lovastatin-induced p63 phosphorylation. Lovastatin’s enhancing effect on p63 acetylation was reduced in HDAC3- or HDAC4- transfected cells. Moreover, transfection of cells with AMPK dominant negative mutant (AMPK-DN), HDAC3, HDAC4 or p63 siRNA significantly reduced lovastatin’s effects on p21cip/Waf1 and survivin. Furthermore, lovastatin inhibited subcutaneous FaDu xenografts growth in vivo. Taken together, lovastatin may activate AMPK-p38MAPK-p63-survivin cascade to cause FaDu cell death. This study establishes, at least in part, the signaling cascade by which lovastatin induces hypopharyngeal carcinoma cell death.
Colletotrichum species associated with jute (Corchorus capsularis L.) anthracnose in southeastern China
Authors: Niu Xiaoping , Gao Hong , Qi Jianmin , Chen Miancai , Tao Aifen , Xu Jiantang , Dai Zhigang , Su Jianguang
Published: April 2016

Anthracnose, caused by the Colletotrichum species of fungi, is one of the most serious diseases affecting jute in China. The disease causes chlorotic regions with black brown sunken necrotic pits on the surfaces of stems. In late stages of disease, plants undergo defoliation, dieback and blight, which make anthracnose a major threat to jute fiber production and quality in China. In this study, 7 strains of Colletotrichum fungi were isolated from diseased jute stems from Zhejiang, Fujian, Guangxi, and Henan plantations in China. Multi-locus sequence (ACT, TUB2, CAL, GS, GAPDH and ITS) analysis coupled with morphological assessment revealed that C. fructicola, C. siamense and C. corchorum-capsularis sp. nov. were associated with jute anthracnose in southeastern China. C. fructicola and C. siamense were previously not associated with jute anthracnose. C. corchorum-capsularis is a new species formally described here. Pathogenicity tests confirmed that all species can infect jute, causing anthracnose, however the virulence of the 3 species differed. This report is the first associating these three species with jute disease worldwide and is the first description of the pathogens responsible for jute anthracnose in China.
Solar-light photocatalytic disinfection using crystalline/amorphous low energy bandgap reduced TiO2
Authors: Kim Youngmin , Hwang Hee Min , Wang Luyang , Kim Ikjoon , Yoon Yeoheung , Lee Hyoyoung
Published: April 2016

A generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) from TiO2 under solar light has been long sought since the ROS can disinfect organic pollutants. We found that newly developed crystalline/amorphous reduced TiO2 (rTiO2) that has low energy bandgap can effectively generate ROS under solar light and successfully remove a bloom of algae. The preparation of rTiO2 is a one-pot and mass productive solution-process reduction using lithium-ethylene diamine (Li-EDA) at room temperature. Interestingly only the rutile phase of TiO2 crystal was reduced, while the anatase phase even in case of both anatase/rutile phased TiO2 was not reduced. Only reduced TiO2 materials can generate ROS under solar light, which was confirmed by electron spin resonance. Among the three different types of Li-EDA treated TiO2 (anatase, rutile and both phased TiO2), the both phased rTiO2 showed the best performance to produce ROS. The generated ROS effectively removed the common green algae Chlamydomonas. This is the first report on algae degradation under solar light, proving the feasibility of commercially available products for disinfection.
Exploring the Association between Serum BDNF and Attempted Suicide
Authors: Eisen Rebecca B. , Perera Stefan , Bawor Monica , Dennis Brittany B. , El-Sheikh Wala , DeJesus Jane , Rangarajan Sumathy , Vair Judith , Sholer Heather , Hutchinson Nicole , Iordan Elizabeth , Mackie Pam , Islam Shofiqul , Dehghan Mahshid , Brasch Jennifer , Anglin Rebecca , Minuzzi Luciano , Thabane Lehana , Samaan Zainab
Published: April 2016

Suicide is a leading cause of death and a significant public health concern. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein important to nervous system function, has been implicated in psychiatric disorders and suicidal behaviour. We investigated the association between serum levels of BDNF and attempted suicide in a sample of 281 participants using a case-control study design. Participants were recruited from clinical and community settings between March 2011 and November 2014. Cases (individuals who had attempted suicide) (n = 84) were matched on sex and age (within five years) to both psychiatric controls (n = 104) and community controls (n = 93) with no history of suicide attempts. We collected fasting blood samples, socio-demographic information, physical measurements and detailed descriptions of suicide attempts. We used linear regression analysis to determine the association between BDNF level (dependent variable) and attempted suicide (key exposure variable), adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, current smoking status and antidepressant use. 250 participants were included in this analysis. In the linear regression model, attempted suicide was not significantly associated with BDNF level (β = 0.28, SE = 1.20, P = 0.82). Our findings suggest that no significant association exists between attempted suicide and BDNF level. However, the findings need to be replicated in a larger cohort study.
Rapid evolution of tolerance to toxic Microcystis in two cladoceran grazers
Authors: Jiang Xiaodong , Gao Han , Zhang Lihua , Liang Huishuang , Zhu Xiao
Published: April 2016

Evolutionary adaptation could assist organisms to cope with environmental changes, yet few experimental systems allow us to directly track evolutionary trajectory. Using experimental evolution, evolutionary tolerance to Microcystis aeruginosa was investigated in two cladocerans (Daphnia pulex and Simocephalus vetulus) to test the hypothesis that cladoceran grazers rapidly adapt to toxic cyanobacteria. After exposure for either three or six months, both grazers evolved a higher tolerance. The intrinsic rate of population increases in S. vetulus feeding on cyanobacteria was negatively correlated with that on green algae, which suggests that evolutionary adaptation in tolerance would carry a cost in the absence of cyanobacteria. However, the cyanobacterial selection resulted in a general increase in D. pulex when fed both cyanobacteria and green algae. Following a three-month relaxation of selection, S. vetulus in the selection line exhibited reverse evolution back to their original state when their diets were switched back to pure green algae. The present experimental evolution, both forwards and reverse, not only demonstrates the evolutionary responses of cladoceran grazers to toxic cyanobacterial cells in the laboratory, but also indicates that the grazer-cyanobacteria interaction would be an effective system to empirically study rapid evolution to environmental changes.
Preparation of trypsin aptamer modified silica particles by surface initiated atom transfer radical polymerization for proteome identification
Authors: Wang Yun , Lv Xuefei , Li Yu , Peng Guang , Iqbal Javed , Deng Yulin
Published: April 2016

Highly efficient and complete protein digestion is vital for achieving accurate protein quantification.
On urea's ability to stabilize the globule state of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)
Authors: Pica Andrea , Graziano Giuseppe
Published: April 2016

Urea stabilizes the PNIPAM globule state because the increase in the solvent-excluded volume effect overwhelms the direct energetic interactions with the PNIPAM surface.
Evaluation of chemical properties of cold pressed onion, okra, rosehip, safflower and carrot seed oils: triglyceride, fatty acid and tocol compositions
Authors: Topkafa Mustafa
Published: April 2016

Chemical properties of cold pressed onion, okra, rosehip, safflower and carrot seed oils were evaluated in terms of triglyceride (TG), fatty acid and tocol (tocopherol and tocotrienol) compositions.
Plant-derived fluorescent silicon nanoparticles featuring excitation wavelength-dependent fluorescence spectra for anti-counterfeiting applications
Authors: Wu Yanyan , Zhong Yiling , Chu Binbin , Sun Bin , Song Bin , Wu Sicong , Su Yuanyuan , He Yao
Published: April 2016

Crystalline, excitation-wavelength-dependent fluorescent and small-sized silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs) are prepared by using gramineae plants as natural and accessible reaction precursors.
On the lack of evolutionary continuity between prebiotic peptides and extant enzymes
Authors: Raggi Luciana , Bada Jeffrey L. , Lazcano Antonio
Published: April 2016

The significance of experiments that claim to simulate the properties of prebiotic small peptides and polypeptides as models of the polymers that may have preceded proteins is critically addressed.
The mechanism of the initial step of germanosilicate formation in solution: a first-principles molecular dynamics study
Authors: Trinh Thuat T. , Rozanska Xavier , Delbecq Françoise , Tuel Alain , Sautet Philippe
Published: April 2016

The condensation reactions between Ge(OH)4 and Si(OH)4 units in solution are studied to understand the mechanism and stable species during the initial steps of the formation process of Ge containing zeolites under basic conditions.
Design of spin-forbidden transitions for polypyridyl metal complexes by time-dependent density functional theory including spin–orbit interaction
Authors: Kanno Shohei , Imamura Yutaka , Hada Masahiko
Published: April 2016

We explore spin-forbidden transitions for a Ru dye with an N3 skeleton and an Fe dye with a DX1 skeleton by time-dependent density functional theory with spin–orbit interaction.
The mechanism of the dielectric relaxation in water
Authors: Popov Ivan , Ishai Paul Ben , Khamzin Airat , Feldman Yuri
Published: April 2016

The water spectra from Raman and Dielectric spectroscopies are combined to present a cohesive description of water dynamics up to the THz region.
Critical role of interfacial effects on the reactivity of semiconductor-cocatalyst junctions for photocatalytic oxygen evolution from water
Authors: Matsubu John C. , Lin Eric T. , Gunther Kyle L. , Bozhilov Krassimir N. , Jiang Yibo , Christopher Phillip
Published: April 2016

Photocatalytic water splitting has the potential to provide a sustainable approach for storing the energy of solar photons in the form of chemical bonds.
Synthesis and characterization of ruthenium and rhenium dyes with phosphonate anchoring groups
Authors: Braumüller Markus , Schulz Martin , Staniszewska Magdalena , Sorsche Dieter , Wunderlin Markus , Popp Jürgen , Guthmuller Julien , Dietzek Benjamin , Rau Sven
Published: April 2016

The synthesis and characterization of new Ru and Re complexes with elongated phosphonate substituents are presented, enabling their immobilization on electrode surfaces.
Manganese oxide supported on gold/iron as a water-oxidizing catalyst in artificial photosynthetic systems
Authors: Najafpour Mohammad Mahdi , Hosseini Seyedeh Maedeh , Zand Zahra
Published: April 2016

Herein, a new conductive, recyclable, highly dispersible, magnetically separable, environmentally friendly, and nano-sized catalyst for water oxidation is reported.
11.3% efficiency Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2 thin film solar cells via drop-on-demand inkjet printing
Authors: Lin Xianzhong , Klenk Reiner , Wang Lan , Köhler Tristan , Albert Jürgen , Fiechter Sebastian , Ennaoui Ahmed , Lux-Steiner Martha Ch.
Published: April 2016

Highly efficient Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2 thin film solar cells are fabricated using a scalable drop-on-demand inkjet printing approach from environmentally-friendly molecular ink.
Towards elucidating the photochemistry of the sunscreen filter ethyl ferulate using time-resolved gas-phase spectroscopy
Authors: Rodrigues N. D. N. , Staniforth M. , Young J. D. , Peperstraete Y. , Cole-Filipiak N. C. , Gord J. R. , Walsh P. S. , Hewett D. M. , Zwier T. S. , Stavros V. G.
Published: April 2016

Ultrafast time-resolved ion yield (TR-IY) and velocity map imaging spectroscopies are employed to reveal the relaxation dynamics after photoexcitation in ethyl 4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamate (ethyl ferulate, EF), an active ingredient in commercially available sunscreens. In keeping with a bottom-up strategy, the building blocks of EF, 2-methoxy-4-vinylphenol (MVP) and 4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamyl alcohol (coniferyl alcohol, ConA), were also studied to assist in our understanding of the dynamics of EF as we build up in molecular complexity. In contrast to the excited state dynamics of MVP and ConA, which are described by a single time constant (>900 ps), the dynamics of EF are described by three time constants (15 ± 4 ps, 148 ± 47 ps, and >900 ps). A mechanism is proposed involving internal conversion (IC) between the initially excited S1(11ππ*) and S2(11nπ*) states followed by intramolecular vibrational redistribution (IVR) on both states, in competition with intersystem crossing onto neighbouring triplet states (15 ± 4 ps). IVR and IC within the triplet manifold then ensues (148 ± 47 ps) to populate a low-lying triplet state (>900 ps). Importantly, the fluorescence spectrum of EF at the S1origin, along with the associated lifetime (6.9 ± 0.1 ns), suggests that population is trapped, during initial IVR, on the S1(11ππ*) state. This serves to demonstrate the complex, competing dynamics in this sunscreen filter molecule.
Quantitative evaluation of ABC transporter-mediated drug resistance based on the determination of the anticancer activity of camptothecin against breast cancer stem cells using TIRF
Authors: Arumugam Parthasarathy , Song Joon Myong
Published: April 2016

Total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy (TIRF) and Qdot probe based analytical method for the simultaneous evaluation of the cytotoxic ability of camptothecin and the drug resistance profile upon the inhibition of drug efflux pumps in breast cancer stem cells.
Practical synthesis and cytotoxic evaluation of the pyrazino[1,2-b]-isoquinoline ring system
Authors: Hernández-Vázquez Eduardo , Miranda Luis D.
Published: April 2016

A multicomponent three-step synthesis of pyrazino[1-2b]isoquinolines is described. A preliminary cytotoxic screening against cancer cell lines was performed.
Reversible and formaldehyde-mediated covalent binding of a bis-amino mitoxantrone analogue to DNA
Authors: Konda Shyam K. , Kelso Celine , Pumuye Paul P. , Medan Jelena , Sleebs Brad E. , Cutts Suzanne M. , Phillips Don R. , Collins J. Grant
Published: April 2016

The ability of the anthracenedione anticancer drug WEHI-150 to form covalent adducts with DNA, after activation by formaldehyde, has been studied by mass spectrometry, HPLC and NMR spectroscopy.
Sulfidogenic-corrosion inhibitory effect of cationic monomeric and gemini surfactants: planktonic and sessile diversity
Authors: Labena A. , Hegazy M. A. , Horn H. , Müller E.
Published: April 2016

A cationic monomeric surfactant (CMS) and a cationic gemini surfactant (CGS) were successfully synthesized and characterized. Both surfactants prevent sulfidogenic activity in bulk phase and on metal surface (biofilms) at a salinity of 3.18% NaCl.
High performance Ni–CNTs catalyst: synthesis and characterization
Authors: Gharegozloo Sh. , Ataie A. , Abdizadeh H. , Mostafavi E. , Parnian M. J. , Khodadadi A. A.
Published: April 2016

In this study, a Ni–CNTs nano-composite was synthesized via mechanical milling.
Metal-free thermally-responsive pseudohybrid nanoparticles based on 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin
Authors: Spiridonov Vasily V. , Panova Irina G. , Topchieva Irina N. , Zakharov Alexandre N.
Published: April 2016

Partial decomposition of pseudohybrid nanoparticles based on 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin by heat treatment at 37 °C.