bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Team leader experience in improvement teams: A social networks perspective
Authors: Easton George S. , Rosenzweig Eve D.
Published: May 2015

In this research, we disentangle the relationship between several key aspects of a team leader's experience and the likelihood of improvement project success. Using the lens of socio‐technical systems, we argue that the effect of team leader experience derives from the social system as well as the technical system. The aspects of team leader experience we examine include team leader social capital (a part of the social system) and team leader experience leading projects of the same type (a part of the technical system).

We examine four different, yet related, dimensions of a team leader's social capital, which we motivate based on the social networks literature. One dimension, team leader familiarity, suggests that social capital is created when team leaders have experience working with current team members on prior improvement projects, and that such social capital increases the likelihood of improvement project success. We develop three additional dimensions, using social network analysis (SNA), to capture the idea that the improvement team leader's social capital extends beyond the current team to include everyone the leader has previously worked with on improvement projects. Contrasting our SNA‐based dimensions with team leader familiarity enables us to better understand the impact of a team leader's social capital both inside and beyond the team. We also examine the effect of a team leader's experience leading prior projects of the same type, and consider the extent to which organizational experience may moderate the impact of both team leader social capital and same‐type project experience.

Based on analysis of archival data of six sigma projects spanning six years from a Fortune 500 consumer products manufacturer, we find that two of our SNA‐based dimensions of team leader social capital, as well as experience leading projects of the same type, increase the likelihood of project success. In addition, we show that organizational experience moderates the relationship between team leader same‐type project experience and project success. However, this is not the case for the relationship between the dimensions of team leader social capital and project success. These results provide insights regarding how dimensions of team leader experience and organizational experience collectively impact the operational performance of improvement teams.
Effect of a processed soy protein product on growth and gut physiology of broiler chickens
Authors: Beski S.S.M. , Iji P.A.
Published: May 2015

A 4 × 2 factorial experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of a processed soy protein (PSP) on broiler performance and digestive physiology. Four inclusion levels of PSP (0, 25, 50 or 100 g/kg in either corn or wheat-based diets) were used in the starter diets. Feed intake was significantly lower (P < 0.01) on corn-based diets than those on wheat-based diets at 35 d. Over the first 10 d, chicks on corn-based diets tended (P < 0.09) to have higher body weight (BW) than wheat-based diet chicks. Across the 35 d trial, PSP level showed a strong tendency (P < 0.06) to be related to higher BW in birds, regardless of grain type. Both grain and PSP experimental factors significantly (P < 0.01, and P < 0.001) interacted at an early age, improving BW and feed conversion ratio (FCR) for birds received high PSP on wheat-based diets. Significantly heavier (P < 0.01) small intestine and gizzard + proventriculas weights at an early age, and heavier (P < 0.001) gizzard + proventriculas and pancreas during the grower stage were recorded in birds fed the corn-based diets. At 24 d, pancreatic chymotrypsin amidase and lipase enzymes were significantly (P < 0.01) more active in chickens fed the wheat-based diet. The interaction of PSP level and the type of the grain was significant (P < 0.01) for pancreatic chymotrypsin amidase and lipase as well as jejunal maltase (P < 0.05). Both experimental factors had a significant influence on jejunum histomorphology at 24 d of age (P < 0.001). There was a significant interaction between level of PSP and the type of grain (P < 0.05) resulting in the highest villus surface areas being seen for birds fed the corn-based diet and receiving the medium level of PSP. The trial demonstrated that PSP supplement can be included at between 50 and 100 g/kg of starter diets, depending on the basal diet.
Acting Right? Privatization, Encompassing Interests, and the Left
Authors: Hicks Timothy
Published: May 2015

I present a theoretical account of the politics of privatization that predicts left-wing support for the policy is conditional on the proportionality of the electoral system. In contrast to accounts that see privatization as an inherently right-wing policy, I argue that, like trade policy, it has the feature of creating distributed benefits and concentrated costs. Less proportional electoral systems create incentives for the Left to be responsive to those who face the concentrated costs, and thus for them to oppose privatization more strongly. More proportional systems reduce these incentives and increase the extent to which distributed benefits are internalized by elected representatives. Hypotheses are derived from this theory at both the individual and macro-policy level, and then tested separately. Quantitative evidence on public opinion from the 1990s and privatization revenues from Western European countries over the period 1980–2005 supports the argument.
THE BRITISH LUTHER COMMEMORATION OF 1883–1884 IN EUROPEAN CONTEXT
Authors: BENNETT J. M. R.
Published: May 2015

In 1883 and early 1884 the controversial commemoration of the four-hundredth birthday of Martin Luther, celebrated in Germany and worldwide, captured much British public attention. The examination of this celebration offered here will improve current understanding of late Victorian religious controversies and indicate their continuing centrality to a range of cultural and historical debates in the period. The commemoration invigorated historic antagonisms in the British religious landscape, yet it also did far more than this. The commemoration provided a platform for those who wanted to foster Protestant unity in the face of what was widely perceived to be a revived threat from ‘popery’ and religious indifference at home and abroad. Whereas some religious and not-very-religious commentators, often belonging to a younger generation, wanted closely to associate Luther's world-historical role with liberalizing intellectual and social progress, others – sceptics, Catholics, high Anglicans, older Protestants – resisted this. Arguments about Luther's life and teaching often became more broadly Victorian discussions of the family, Anglo-German affinities or antagonisms, and the nature of modernity. By relating themes in the study of modern religious history to current concerns in the history of historical writing, this article will point to wider lacunae in scholarly approaches to nineteenth-century culture.
NANA SAHIB IN BRITISH CULTURE AND MEMORY
Authors: WALLACE BRIAN
Published: May 2015

The Indian Rebellion leader Nana Sahib became Victorian Britain's most hated foreign enemy for his part in the 1857 Cawnpore massacres, in which British men, women, and children were killed after having been promised safe passage away from their besieged garrison. Facts were mixed with lurid fiction in reports which drew on villainous oriental stereotypes to depict Nana. The public appetite for vengeance was thwarted, however, by his escape to Nepal and subsequent reports of his death. These reports were widely disbelieved, and fears persisted for decades that Nana was plotting a new rebellion in the mountains. He came to be seen as both a literal and symbolic threat; the arrest of suspects across the years periodically revived the memories and the atavistic fury of the Mutiny, while his example as the Victorians' archetypal barbaric native ruler shaped broader colonial attitudes. At the same time, he influenced metropolitan perceptions of empire through the popular Mutiny fictions in which he was a larger-than-life villain. Tracing Nana's changing presence in the British collective memory over generations illustrates the tensions between metropolitan and colonial ideas of empire, and suggests the degree to which an iconic enemy figure could shape perceptions of other races.
DRAMA, POLITICS, AND NEWS IN THE EARL OF SUSSEX'S ENTERTAINMENT OF ELIZABETH I AT NEW HALL, 1579
Authors: YOUNGER NEIL
Published: May 2015

In September 1579, at the height of an intense political debate over her prospective marriage to the duke of Anjou, Elizabeth I visited New Hall, the country seat of the match's greatest supporter within England, Thomas Radcliffe, third earl of Sussex. Her entertainment on that occasion, hitherto completely unknown, was described in a letter, printed here, from one Norfolk gentleman, Sir Edward Clere, to another, Bassingbourne Gawdy. The letter describes the dramatic performances and other entertainments provided for the queen, which included coded but unmistakeable encouragements for her to proceed with the marriage. This article discusses the ways in which this was done and their consequences for our knowledge of the Anjou marriage debate as a political episode, suggesting that Sussex sought to use the entertainment to boost the participation of more conservative members of the nobility in government. It also explores how this evidence affects our picture of Elizabethan courtly entertainments, and particularly their non-dramatic elements. Finally, it discusses Clere's letter itself as an insight into the nature of gentry news culture, particularly with regard to matters of high politics.
Low-cost mobile open-circuit hood system for measuring gas exchange in small ruminants: from manual to automatic recording
Authors: FERNÁNDEZ C. , LÓPEZ M. C. , LACHICA M.
Published: May 2015

Improvements of a home-made mobile open-circuit respirometry system for the rapid determination of methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) production, oxygen (O2) consumption and, thereafter, heat production (HP) for small ruminants are described and validated. Upgrades consisted of three main features: utilization of a head hood (replacing the previous face mask); use of a computerized control system, data acquisition and recording for gases and air flux (replacing collecting bags for air sampling); and use of a gas cooler to remove the air sample moisture (replacing the chemical drier (silica gel) approach). Calibration factors were established by injecting nitrogen (N2) and CO2 in the system into the head hood. Repetitive and consistent values for the calibration factor were obtained for O2 and CO2 which confirmed the absence of leaks and the good performance of the system. In addition, an experimental test with 12 Manchega female dry sheep was conducted to validate the system. Three diets based on cereal grain, fibrous by-products and alfalfa hay (ALH) were used with four sheep per diet. Metabolizable energy intake was close to metabolizable energy for maintenance. Average HP measured by indirect calorimetry (respiratory quotient (RQ) method) was close to the average HP determined from Carbon–Nitrogen balance (CN method) accounting for 443 and 426 kJ/kg0·75 body weight (BW) per day, respectively. Fasting HP was determined by the RQ method with two sheep from the ALH diet accounting for 269 kJ/kg0·75 BW per day. The head hood and computerized control, data acquisition and recording as well as the gas cooler improved the system by reducing the labour input without loss of functionality for measuring gas exchange and energy metabolism in small ruminants.
Large-scale dinoflagellate bloom species Prorocentrum donghaiense and Karenia mikimotoi reduce the survival and reproduction of copepod Calanus sinicus
Authors: Lin Jia-Ning , Song Jing-Jing , Yan Tian , Zhang Qing-Chun , Zhou Ming-Jiang
Published: May 2015

Large-scale blooms of dinoflagellates, such as Prorocentrum donghaiense and Karenia mikimotoi, have occurred frequently in the East China Sea (ECS) in recent decades. However, little is known about their effects on the entire life history of copepods. Under laboratory conditions, we investigated the effects of these two common dinoflagellates on the survival of Calanus sinicus individuals at different stages and on reproduction of this copepod. Compared with the control treatment (Skeletonema costatum), the presence of P. donghaiense and K. mikimotoi decreased the survival rates of adults and nauplii during the 16 days of the experiment. Survival of nauplii decreased to 49% and 48%, respectively, relative to the nearly 80% survival of adults. Among the six stages of nauplii, individuals at NII and NIII were more susceptible to P. donghaiense and K. mikimotoi. Lower egg production rates were also observed when copepods were exposed to P. donghaiense and K. mikimotoi, and hatching success decreased only with exposure to P. donghaiense. These results suggest that blooms of the two common dinoflagellates may have detrimental effects on the survival of nauplii and the reproduction of C. sinicus, which may pose a major threat to the recruitment of C. sinicus.
Cardiovascular risk factors and metabolic syndrome in people with established psychotic illnesses: baseline data from the IMPaCT randomized controlled trial
Authors: Gardner-Sood P. , Lally J. , Smith S. , Atakan Z. , Ismail K. , Greenwood K. E. , Keen A. , O'Brien C. , Onagbesan O. , Fung C. , Papanastasiou E. , Eberherd J. , Patel A. , Ohlsen R. , Stahl D. , David A. , Hopkins D. , Murray R. M. , Gaughran F. ,   on behalf of the IMPaCT team
Published: May 2015

Background

The aims of the study were to determine the prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors and establish the proportion of people with psychosis meeting criteria for the metabolic syndrome (MetS). The study also aimed to identify the key lifestyle behaviours associated with increased risk of the MetS and to investigate whether the MetS is associated with illness severity and degree of functional impairment.

Method

Baseline data were collected as part of a large randomized controlled trial (IMPaCT RCT). The study took place within community mental health teams in five Mental Health NHS Trusts in urban and rural locations across England. A total of 450 randomly selected out-patients, aged 18–65 years, with an established psychotic illness were recruited. We ascertained the prevalence rates of cardiometabolic risk factors, illness severity and functional impairment and calculated rates of the MetS, using International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and National Cholesterol Education Program Third Adult Treatment Panel criteria.

Results

High rates of cardiometabolic risk factors were found. Nearly all women and most men had waist circumference exceeding the IDF threshold for central obesity. Half the sample was obese (body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m2) and a fifth met the criteria for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Females were more likely to be obese than males (61% v. 42%, p < 0.001). Of the 308 patients with complete laboratory measures, 57% (n = 175) met the IDF criteria for the MetS.

Conclusions

In the UK, the prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors in individuals with psychotic illnesses is much higher than that observed in national general population studies as well as in most international studies of patients with psychosis.
Lens-based fluorescence nanoscopy
Authors: Eggeling Christian , Willig Katrin I. , Sahl Steffen J. , Hell Stefan W.
Published: May 2015

The majority of studies of the living cell rely on capturing images using fluorescence microscopy. Unfortunately, for centuries, diffraction of light was limiting the spatial resolution in the optical microscope: structural and molecular details much finer than about half the wavelength of visible light (~200 nm) could not be visualized, imposing significant limitations on this otherwise so promising method. The surpassing of this resolution limit in far-field microscopy is currently one of the most momentous developments for studying the living cell, as the move from microscopy to super-resolution microscopy or ‘nanoscopy’ offers opportunities to study problems in biophysical and biomedical research at a new level of detail. This review describes the principles and modalities of present fluorescence nanoscopes, as well as their potential for biophysical and cellular experiments. All the existing nanoscopy variants separate neighboring features by transiently preparing their fluorescent molecules in states of different emission characteristics in order to make the features discernible. Usually these are fluorescent ‘on’ and ‘off’ states causing the adjacent molecules to emit sequentially in time. Each of the variants can in principle reach molecular spatial resolution and has its own advantages and disadvantages. Some require specific transitions and states that can be found only in certain fluorophore subfamilies, such as photoswitchable fluorophores, while other variants can be realized with standard fluorescent labels. Similar to conventional far-field microscopy, nanoscopy can be utilized for dynamical, multi-color and three-dimensional imaging of fixed and live cells, tissues or organisms. Lens-based fluorescence nanoscopy is poised for a high impact on future developments in the life sciences, with the potential to help solve long-standing quests in different areas of scientific research.
UNIFORM CONSISTENCY OF NONSTATIONARY KERNEL-WEIGHTED SAMPLE COVARIANCES FOR NONPARAMETRIC REGRESSION
Authors: Li Degui , Phillips Peter C. B. , Gao Jiti
Published: May 2015

We obtain uniform consistency results for kernel-weighted sample covariances in a nonstationary multiple regression framework that allows for both fixed design and random design coefficient variation. In the fixed design case these nonparametric sample covariances have different uniform asymptotic rates depending on direction, a result that differs fundamentally from the random design and stationary cases. The uniform asymptotic rates derived exceed the corresponding rates in the stationary case and confirm the existence of uniform super-consistency. The modelling framework and convergence rates allow for endogeneity and thus broaden the practical econometric import of these results. As a specific application, we establish uniform consistency of nonparametric kernel estimators of the coefficient functions in nonlinear cointegration models with time varying coefficients or functional coefficients, and provide sharp convergence rates. For the fixed design models, in particular, there are two uniform convergence rates that apply in two different directions, both rates exceeding the usual rate in the stationary case.
Intubation Efficiency and Perceived Ease of Use of Video Laryngoscopy vs Direct Laryngoscopy While Wearing HazMat PPE: A Preliminary High-fidelity Mannequin Study
Authors: Aberle Sara J. , Sandefur Benjamin J. , Sunga Kharmene L. , Campbell Ronna L. , Lohse Christine M. , Alecastro Puls Henrique , Laudon Sarah , Sztajnkrycer Matthew D.
Published: May 2015

Introduction

Management of contaminated patients in the decontamination corridor requires the use of hazardous material (HazMat) personal protective equipment (PPE). Previous studies have demonstrated that HazMat PPE may increase the difficulty of airway management. This study compared the efficiency of video laryngoscopy (VL) with traditional direct laryngoscopy (DL) during endotracheal intubation (ETI) while wearing HazMat PPE.

Methods

Post-graduate year (PGY) 1-3 Emergency Medicine residents were randomized to VL or DL while wearing encapsulating PPE. Video laryngoscopy was performed using the GlideScope Cobalt AVL video laryngoscope. The primary outcome measure was time to successful ETI in a high-fidelity simulation mannequin. Three time points were utilized in the analysis: Time 0 (blade at lips), Time 1 (blade removed from lips after endotracheal tube placement), and Time 2 (bag valve mask [BVM] attached to endotracheal tube). Secondary outcome measures were perceived ease of use and feasibility of VL and DL ETI modalities.

Results

Twenty-one of 23 (91.3%) eligible residents participated. Mean time to ETI was 10.0 seconds (SD=5.3 seconds) in the DL group and 7.8 seconds (SD=3.0 seconds) in the VL group (P=.081). Mean times from blade insertion until BVM attachment were 17.4 seconds (SD=6.0 seconds) and 15.6 seconds (SD=4.6 seconds), respectively (P=.30). There were no unsuccessful intubation attempts. Seventeen out of 20 participants (85.0%) perceived VL to be easier to use when performing ETI in PPE. Twelve out of 20 participants (60%) perceived DL to be more feasible in an actual HazMat scenario.

Conclusion

The time to successful ETI was not significantly different between VL and DL. Video laryngoscopy had a greater perceived ease of use, but DL was perceived to be more feasible for use in actual HazMat situations. These findings suggest that both DL and VL are reasonable modalities for use in HazMat situations, and the choice of modality could be based on the clinical situation and provider experience.

AberleSJ,SandefurBJ,SungaKL,CampbellRL,LohseCM,Alecastro PulsH,LaudonS,SztajnkrycerMD.Intubation efficiency and perceived ease of use of video laryngoscopy vs direct laryngoscopy while wearing HazMat PPE: a preliminary high-fidelity mannequin study.Prehosp Disaster Med.2015;30(3):1–5.
Interlanguage dynamics and lexical networks in nonnative L2 signers of ASL: cross-modal rhyme priming
Authors: WILLIAMS JOSHUA , NEWMAN SHARLENE
Published: May 2015

This study investigated the structure of the bimodal bilingual lexicon. In the cross-modal priming task nonnative sign language learners heard an English word (e.g.,keys) and responded to the lexicality of a signed target: an underlying rhyme (e.g.,cheese) or a sign neighbor of that word (e.g.,paper). The results indicated that rhyme words were retrieved more quickly and the L2 neighbors were faster for beginner learners. An item analysis also indicated that semantics did not facilitate neighbor retrieval and high frequency signs were retrieved more quickly. The AX discrimination task showed that learners focus on handshape and movement parameters and discriminate equally. The interlanguage dynamics play an important role in which phonological parameters are used and the spread of activation over time. A nonselective, integrated model of the bimodal bilingual lexicon is proposed such that lateral connections are weakened over time and handshape parameter feeds most of the activation to neighboring signs as a function of system dynamics.
The Icelandic 16-electrode electrohysterogram database
Authors: Alexandersson Asgeir , Steingrimsdottir Thora , Terrien Jeremy , Marque Catherine , Karlsson Brynjar
Published: May 2015

External recordings of the electrohysterogram (EHG) can provide new knowledge on uterine electrical activity associated with contractions. Better understanding of the mechanisms underlying labor can contribute to preventing preterm birth which is the main cause of mortality and morbidity in newborns. Promising results using the EHG for labor prediction and other uses in obstetric care are the drivers of this work. This paper presents a database of 122 4-by-4 electrode EHG recordings performed on 45 pregnant women using a standardized recording protocol and a placement guide system. The recordings were performed in Iceland between 2008 and 2010. Of the 45 participants, 32 were measured repeatedly during the same pregnancy and participated in two to seven recordings. Recordings were performed in the third trimester (112 recordings) and during labor (10 recordings). The database includes simultaneously recorded tocographs, annotations of events and obstetric information on participants. The publication of this database enables independent and novel analysis of multi-electrode EHG by the researchers in the field and hopefully development towards new life-saving technology.
High energetic excitons in carbon nanotubes directly probe charge-carriers
Authors: Soavi Giancarlo , Scotognella Francesco , Viola Daniele , Hefner Timo , Hertel Tobias , Cerullo Giulio , Lanzani Guglielmo
Published: May 2015

Theory predicts peculiar features for excited-state dynamics in one dimension (1D) that are difficult to be observed experimentally. Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) are an excellent approximation to 1D quantum confinement, due to their very high aspect ratio and low density of defects. Here we use ultrafast optical spectroscopy to probe photogenerated charge-carriers in (6,5) semiconducting SWNTs. We identify the transient energy shift of the highly polarizable S33 transition as a sensitive fingerprint of charge-carriers in SWNTs. By measuring the coherent phonon amplitude profile we obtain a precise estimate of the Stark-shift and discuss the binding energy of the S33 excitonic transition. From this, we infer that charge-carriers are formed instantaneously (<50 fs) even upon pumping the first exciton, S11. The decay of the photogenerated charge-carrier population is well described by a model for geminate recombination in 1D.
Biodegradable CSMA/PECA/Graphene Porous Hybrid Scaffold for Cartilage Tissue Engineering
Authors: Liao JinFeng , Qu Ying , Chu BingYang , Zhang XiaoNing , Qian ZhiYong
Published: May 2015

Owing to the limited repair capacity of articular cartilage, it is essential to develop tissue-engineered cartilage for patients suffering from joint disease and trauma. Herein, we prepared a novel hybrid scaffold composed of methacrylated chondroitin sulfate (CSMA), poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether-ε-caprolactone-acryloyl chloride (MPEG-PCL-AC, PECA was used as abbreviation for MPEG-PCL-AC) and graphene oxide (GO) and evaluated its potential application in cartilage tissue engineering. To mimic the natural extracellular matrix (ECM) of cartilage, the scaffold had an adequate pore size, porosity, swelling ability, compression modulus and conductivity. Cartilage cells contacted with the scaffold remained viable and showed growth potential. Furthermore, CSMA/PECA/GO scaffold was biocompatible and had a favorable degradation rate. In the cartilage tissue repair of rabbit, Micro-CT and histology observation showed the group of CSMA/PECA/GO scaffold with cellular supplementation had better chondrocyte morphology, integration, continuous subchondral bone and much thicker newly formed cartilage compared with scaffold group and control group. Our results show that the CSMA/PECA/GO hybrid porous scaffold can be applied in articular cartilage tissue engineering and may have great potential to in other types of tissue engineering applications.
Osteogenic Embryoid Body-Derived Material Induces Bone Formation In Vivo
Authors: Sutha Ken , Schwartz Zvi , Wang Yun , Hyzy Sharon , Boyan Barbara D. , McDevitt Todd C.
Published: May 2015

The progressive loss of endogenous regenerative capacity that accompanies mammalian aging has been attributed at least in part to alterations in the extracellular matrix (ECM) composition of adult tissues. Thus, creation of a more regenerative microenvironment, analogous to embryonic morphogenesis, may be achieved via pluripotent embryonic stem cell (ESC) differentiation and derivation of devitalized materials as an alternative to decellularized adult tissues, such as demineralized bone matrix (DBM). Transplantation of devitalized ESC materials represents a novel approach to promote functional tissue regeneration and reduce the inherent batch-to-batch variability of allograft-derived materials. In this study, the osteoinductivity of embryoid body-derived material (EBM) was compared to DBM in a standard in vivo ectopic osteoinduction assay in nude mice. EBM derived from EBs differentiated for 10 days with osteogenic media (+β-glycerophosphate) exhibited similar osteoinductivity to active DBM (osteoinduction score = 2.50 ± 0.27 vs. 2.75 ± 0.16) based on histological scoring and exceeded inactive DBM (1.13 ± 0.13, p < 0.005). Moreover, EBM stimulated formation of new bone, ossicles and marrow spaces, similar to active DBM. The potent osteoinductivity of EBM demonstrates that morphogenic factors expressed by ESCs undergoing osteogenic differentiation yield a novel devitalized material capable of stimulating de novo bone formation in vivo.
Tissue spray ionization mass spectrometry for rapid recognition of human lung squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wei Yiping , Chen Liru , Zhou Wei , Chingin Konstantin , Ouyang Yongzhong , Zhu Tenggao , Wen Hua , Ding Jianhua , Xu Jianjun , Chen Huanwen
Published: May 2015

Tissue spray ionization mass spectrometry (TSI-MS) directly on small tissue samples has been shown to provide highly specific molecular information. In this study, we apply this method to the analysis of 38 pairs of human lung squamous cell carcinoma tissue (cancer) and adjacent normal lung tissue (normal). The main components of pulmonary surfactants, dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC, m/z 757.47), phosphatidylcholine (POPC, m/z 782.52), oleoyl phosphatidylcholine (DOPC, m/z 808.49) and arachidonic acid stearoyl phosphatidylcholine (SAPC, m/z 832.43), were identified using high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry. Monte Carlo sampling partial least squares linear discriminant analysis (PLS-LDA) was used to distinguish full-mass-range mass spectra of cancer samples from the mass spectra of normal tissues. With 5 principal components and 30 – 40 Monte Carlo samplings, the accuracy of cancer identification in matched tissue samples reached 94.42%. Classification of a tissue sample required less than 1 min, which is much faster than the analysis of frozen sections. The rapid, in situ diagnosis with minimal sample consumption provided by TSI-MS is advantageous for surgeons. TSI-MS allows them to make more informed decisions during surgery.
A small, microRNA-size, ribonucleic acid regulating gene expression and development of Shiga toxin-converting bacteriophage Φ24Β
Authors: Nejman-Faleńczyk Bożena , Bloch Sylwia , Licznerska Katarzyna , Dydecka Aleksandra , Felczykowska Agnieszka , Topka Gracja , Węgrzyn Alicja , Węgrzyn Grzegorz
Published: May 2015

A microRNA-size (20-nt long) molecule has been identified in Escherichia coli after induction of Shiga toxin-converting bacteriophage Φ24B. This small RNA, named 24B_1, is encoded in the lom-vb_24B_43 region of the phage genome and apparently it is produced by cleavage of a larger transcript. A phage devoid of 24B_1 revealed decreased efficiency of lysogenization, quicker prophage induction after provoking the SOS response, higher efficiency of progeny phage production during the lytic cycle and less efficient adsorption on the host cells. Expression of most of phage genes was drastically increased after infection of E. coli by the Φ24BΔ24B_1 phage. Since 24B_1 may impair expression of the d_ant gene, coding for an anti-repressor, these results may explain the mechanism of regulations of the physiological processes by this small RNA due to impaired activity of the cI repressor and changed expression of vast majority of phage genes. To our knowledge, this is the first example of functional microRNA-size molecule in bacterial cells.
High Maternal Serum Estradiol Levels Induce Dyslipidemia in Human Newborns via a Hepatic HMGCR Estrogen Response Element
Authors: Meng Ye , Lv Ping-Ping , Ding Guo-Lian , Yu Tian-Tian , Liu Ye , Shen Yan , Hu Xiao-Ling , Lin Xian-Hua , Tian Shen , Lv Min , Song Yang , Guo Meng-Xi , Ke Zhang-Hong , Xu Hong , Sheng Jian-Zhong , Shi Feng-Tao , Huang He-Feng
Published: May 2015

While the intrauterine environment is essential for the health of offspring, the impact of high maternal serum estradiol (E2) on lipid metabolism in offspring and the mechanisms are unknown. We found that ovarian stimulation (OS) could result in high E2 levels in women throughout pregnancy. Strikingly, their newborns showed elevated total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels that were positively related with E2 in newborns. In vitro, E2 dose-dependently stimulated TC and LDL-C secretion and increased expression of the cholesterol synthesis rate-limiting enzyme 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGCR) in HepG2 cells and mouse fetal hepatocytes. In vivo, high maternal E2 was detected and fetal livers also showed significantly higher HMGCR expression in an OS mouse model. Notably, an estrogen response element (ERE) was identified in the HMGCR promoter, indicating that high maternal serum E2 could up-regulate HMGCR expression in fetal hepatocytes via an ERE that in turn induces elevated levels of TC and LDL-C in offspring. Conclusion: OS can induce a high maternal E2 environment, which up-regulates HMGCR expression in fetal hepatocytes via an ERE in the promoter and induces elevated levels of TC and LDL-C in newborns that may be related to increased risk of metabolic disease in adulthood.
Comprehensive analysis of the T-cell receptor beta chain gene in rhesus monkey by high throughput sequencing
Authors: Li Zhoufang , Liu Guangjie , Tong Yin , Zhang Meng , Xu Ying , Qin Li , Wang Zhanhui , Chen Xiaoping , He Jiankui
Published: May 2015

Profiling immune repertoires by high throughput sequencing enhances our understanding of immune system complexity and immune-related diseases in humans. Previously, cloning and Sanger sequencing identified limited numbers of T cell receptor (TCR) nucleotide sequences in rhesus monkeys, thus their full immune repertoire is unknown. We applied multiplex PCR and Illumina high throughput sequencing to study the TCRβ of rhesus monkeys. We identified 1.26 million TCRβ sequences corresponding to 643,570 unique TCRβ sequences and 270,557 unique complementarity-determining region 3 (CDR3) gene sequences. Precise measurements of CDR3 length distribution, CDR3 amino acid distribution, length distribution of N nucleotide of junctional region and TCRV and TCRJ gene usage preferences were performed. A comprehensive profile of rhesus monkey immune repertoire might aid human infectious disease studies using rhesus monkeys.
Identification of enzymes involved in SUMOylation in Trypanosoma brucei
Authors: Ye Kaiqin , Zhang Xuecheng , Ni Jun , Liao Shanhui , Tu Xiaoming
Published: May 2015

Small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO), a reversible post-translational protein modifier, plays important roles in diverse cellular mechanisms. Three enzymes, E1 (activating enzyme), E2 (conjugating enzyme) and E3 (ligase), are involved in SUMO modification. SUMOylation system and process in higher eukaryotes have been well studied. However, in protozoa, such as Trypanosoma brucei (T. brucei), these remain poorly understood. Herein, we identified the E1 (TbAos1/TbUba2) and E2 (TbUbc9) enzymes of SUMOylation pathway in T. brucei by sequence analysis and GST pull-down assay. Furthermore, we successfully reconstructed the SUMOylation system in vitro with recombinant enzymes. Using this system, the active site of TbUba2 and TbUbc9 was revealed to be located at Cys343 and Cys132, respectively and a centrin homologue (TbCentrin3) was identified to be a target of SUMOylation in T. brucei. Altogether, our results demonstrate that TbAos1/TbUba2 and TbUbc9 are the bona fide E1 and E2 enzymes of the SUMOylation system in T. brucei.
Structure and mechanism of an antibiotics-synthesizing 3-hydroxykynurenine C-methyltransferase
Authors: Chen Sheng-Chia , Huang Chi-Hung , Lai Shu-Jung , Liu Jai-Shin , Fu Pin-Kuei , Tseng Shih-Ting , Yang Chia Shin , Lai Mei-Chin , Ko Tzu-Ping , Chen Yeh
Published: May 2015

Streptosporangium sibiricum SibL catalyzes the methyl transfer from S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) to 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK) to produce S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) and 3-hydroxy-4-methyl-kynurenine for sibiromycin biosynthesis. Here, we present the crystal structures of apo-form Ss-SibL, Ss-SibL/SAH binary complex and Ss-SibL/SAH/3-HK ternary complex. Ss-SibL is a homodimer. Each subunit comprises a helical N-terminal domain and a Rossmann-fold C-terminal domain. SAM (or SAH) binding alone results in domain movements, suggesting a two-step catalytic cycle. Analyses of the enzyme-ligand interactions and further mutant studies support a mechanism in which Tyr134 serves as the principal base in the transferase reaction of methyl group from SAM to 3-HK.
Functional Role of Histidine in the Conserved His-x-Asp Motif in the Catalytic Core of Protein Kinases
Authors: Zhang Lun , Wang Jian-Chuan , Hou Li , Cao Peng-Rong , Wu Li , Zhang Qian-Sen , Yang Huai-Yu , Zang Yi , Ding Jian-Ping , Li Jia
Published: May 2015

The His-x-Asp (HxD) motif is one of the most conserved structural components of the catalytic core of protein kinases; however, the functional role of the conserved histidine is unclear. Here we report that replacement of the HxD-histidine with Arginine or Phenylalanine in Aurora A abolishes both the catalytic activity and auto-phosphorylation, whereas the Histidine-to-tyrosine impairs the catalytic activity without affecting its auto-phosphorylation. Comparisons of the crystal structures of wild-type (WT) and mutant Aurora A demonstrate that the impairment of the kinase activity is accounted for by (1) disruption of the regulatory spine in the His-to-Arg mutant and (2) change in the geometry of backbones of the Asp-Phe-Gly (DFG) motif and the DFG-1 residue in the His-to-Tyr mutant. In addition, bioinformatics analyses show that the HxD-histidine is a mutational hotspot in tumor tissues. Moreover, the H174R mutation of the HxD-histidine, in the tumor suppressor LKB1 abrogates the inhibition of anchorage-independent growth of A549 cells by WT LKB1. Based on these data, we propose that the HxD-histidine is involved in a conserved inflexible organization of the catalytic core that is required for the kinase activity. Mutation of the HxD-histidine may also be involved in the pathogenesis of some diseases including cancer.
Capturing the embryonic stages of self-assembly - design rules for molecular computation
Authors: Nirmalraj Peter N. , Thompson Damien , Riel Heike E.
Published: May 2015

The drive towards organic computing is gaining momentum. Interestingly, the building blocks for such architectures is based on molecular ensembles extending from nucleic acids to synthetic molecules. Advancement in this direction requires devising precise nanoscopic experiments and model calculations to decipher the mechanisms governing the integration of a large number of molecules over time at room-temperature. Here, we report on ultrahigh-resolution scanning tunnelling microscopic measurements to register the motion of molecules in the absence of external stimulus in liquid medium. We observe the collective behavior of individual molecules within a swarm which constantly iterate their position to attain an energetically favourable site. Our approach provides a consistent pathway to register molecular self-assembly in sequential steps from visualising thermodynamically driven repair of defects up until the formation of a stable two-dimensional configuration. These elemental findings on molecular surface dynamics, self-repair and intermolecular kinetic pathways rationalised by atom-scale simulations can be explored for developing new models in algorithmic self-assembly to realisation of evolvable hardware.
Recovery and removal of nutrients from swine wastewater by using a novel integrated reactor for struvite decomposition and recycling
Authors: Huang Haiming , Xiao Dean , Liu Jiahui , Hou Li , Ding Li
Published: May 2015

In the present study, struvite decomposition was performed by air stripping for ammonia release and a novel integrated reactor was designed for the simultaneous removal and recovery of total ammonia-nitrogen (TAN) and total orthophosphate (PT) from swine wastewater by internal struvite recycling. Decomposition of struvite by air stripping was found to be feasible. Without supplementation with additional magnesium and phosphate sources, the removal ratio of TAN from synthetic wastewater was maintained at >80% by recycling of the struvite decomposition product formed under optimal conditions, six times. Continuous operation of the integrated reactor indicated that approximately 91% TAN and 97% PT in the swine wastewater could be removed and recovered by the proposed recycling process with the supplementation of bittern. Economic evaluation of the proposed system showed that struvite precipitation cost can be saved by approximately 54% by adopting the proposed recycling process in comparison with no recycling method.
Targeting blood thrombogenicity precipitates atherothrombotic events in a mouse model of plaque destabilization
Authors: Liu Xiaoling , Ni Mei , Ma Lianyue , Yang Jianmin , Wang Lin , Liu Fangfang , Dong Mei , Yang Xiaoyan , Zhang Mei , Lu Huixia , Wang Jingjing , Zhang Cheng , Jiang Fan , Zhang Yun
Published: May 2015

Although some features of plaque instability can be observed in genetically modified mouse models, atherothrombosis induction in mice has been attested to be difficult. We sought to test the hypothesis that alterations in blood thrombogenicity might have an essential role in the development of atherothrombosis in ApoE−/− mice. In a mouse model of plaque destabilization established in our laboratory, we targeted blood thrombogenicity by systemically overexpressing murine prothrombin via adenovirus-mediated gene transfer. Systemic overexpression of prothrombin increased blood thrombogenicity and remarkably, precipitated atherothrombotic events in 70% of the animals. The affected plaques displayed features of culprit lesions as seen in human coronary arteries, including fibrous cap disruption, luminal thrombosis and plaque hemorrhage. Treatment with aspirin and clopidogrel substantially reduced the incidence of atherothrombosis in this model. Mechanistically, increased inflammation, apoptosis and upregulation of metalloproteinases contributed to the development of plaque destabilization and atherothrombosis. As conclusions, targeting blood thrombogenicity in mice can faithfully reproduce the process of atherothrombosis as occurring in human coronary vessels. Our results suggest that blood-plaque interactions are critical in the development of atherothrombosis in mice, substantiating the argument that changes in blood coagulation status may have a determinant role in the onset of acute coronary syndrome.
Ductile thermoset polymers via controlling network flexibility
Authors: Hameed N. , Salim N. V. , Walsh T. R. , Wiggins J. S. , Ajayan P. M. , Fox B. L.
Published: May 2015

We report the design and synthesis of a polymer structure from a cross-linkable epoxy–ionic liquid system which behaves like a hard and brittle epoxy thermoset, perfectly ductile thermoplastic and an elastomer, all depending on controllable network compositions.
Microfluidics for research and applications in oncology
Authors: Chaudhuri Parthiv Kant , Ebrahimi Warkiani Majid , Jing Tengyang , Kenry Kenry , Lim Chwee Teck
Published: May 2015

Cancer is currently one of the top non-communicable human diseases, and continual research and developmental efforts, particularly in microfluidics technology, are being made to better understand and manage this disease.
Speciation and quantification of organotin compounds in sediment and drinking water by isotope dilution liquid chromatography-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry
Authors: Bishop David P. , Hare Dominic J. , de Grazia Adrian , Fryer Fred , Doble Philip A.
Published: May 2015

A rapid, simple isotope dilution method for detecting organotins in sediment samples.
Adaptive wavelet packet transform for support vector machine modeling as globally optimized by particle swarm optimization algorithm
Authors: Zhang Jin-Wen , Wu Ji-Dong , Tang Li-Juan , Jiang Jian-Hui , Shen Guo-Li , Yu Ru-Qin
Published: May 2015

Multivariate calibration algorithms and statistical methods are typically required in quantitative near infrared (NIR) spectroscopic methods to relate the NIR spectral response to the chemical or physical properties of samples.
Stereoselective synthesis of epoxyisoprostanes: an organocatalytic and “pot-economy” approach
Authors: Weng Jiang , Wang Sheng , Huang Lin-Jie , Luo Zhang-Yi , Lu Gui
Published: May 2015

An efficient and direct synthetic route to epoxyisoprostane EC methyl ester has been accomplished in 8 steps (10% overall yield) from readily available starting materials using a series of asymmetric organocatalytic reactions and one-pot operations.
The role of the molecular structure of carboxylate-alumoxanes in the enhanced nucleation of polypropylene
Authors: Mani Mohan Raj , Chellaswamy Ramesh , Marathe Yogesh N. , Pillai Vijayamohanan K.
Published: May 2015

The unique, butterfly-like structure of carboxylate-alumoxanes offers polypropylene segments a shape selective cavity to fit in and facilitate a favourable interaction for enhanced nucleation.
Unveiling epimerization effects: a rotational study of α-d-galactose
Authors: Peña Isabel , Cabezas Carlos , Alonso José L.
Published: May 2015

Four conformers of α-d-galactose have been detected in the gas phase by laser ablation coupled with broadband Fourier transform microwave spectroscopy.
Organocatalyzed oxidative N-annulation for diverse and polyfunctionalized pyridines
Authors: Khanal Hari Datta , Lee Yong Rok
Published: May 2015

A variety of polyfunctionalized pyridines were synthesized from readily available ketones with α,β-unsaturated aldehydes and ammonium acetate under a mild organocatalyst.
Kinetic resolution of 2,3-epoxy 3-aryl ketones via catalytic asymmetric ring-opening with pyrazole derivatives
Authors: Huang Tianyu , Lin Lili , Hu Xiaolei , Zheng Jianfeng , Liu Xiaohua , Feng Xiaoming
Published: May 2015

A highly efficient catalytic kinetic resolution of 2,3-epoxy 3-aryl ketones via asymmetric ring-opening with pyrazole derivatives has been achieved by using a chiral N,N′-dioxide–Sc(iii) complex as the catalyst.
Solution-based fabrication of a highly catalytically active 3D network constructed from 1D metal–organic framework-coated polymeric worm-like micelles
Authors: Yi Junqi , Li Haodong , Jiang Li , Zhang Kaka , Chen Daoyong
Published: May 2015

Crystallization of ZIF-8 on the surface of polymeric worms leads to a catalytically active 3D network constructed by the composite nanowires.
Pd(ii) catalyzed ortho C–H iodination of phenylcarbamates at room temperature using cyclic hypervalent iodine reagents
Authors: Sun Xiuyun , Yao Xia , Zhang Chao , Rao Yu
Published: May 2015

The first example to access ortho iodinated phenols using cyclic hypervalent iodine(iii) reagents through palladium(ii) catalyzed C–H activation has been developed via weak coordination. The reaction showed excellent regioselectivity, reactivity and good functional group tolerance. A unique mechanism was proposed.
Metal ion clip: fine-tuning aromatic stacking interactions in the multistep formation of carbazole-bridged zinc(ii) complexes
Authors: Imai Yuki , Kawai Tsuyoshi , Yuasa Junpei
Published: May 2015

A carbazole-based triple bridging ligand (LH) consisting of two imidazole moieties with a diketone unit forms carbazole-bridged zinc(ii) complexes with structures of [(L−)4(Zn2+)n] (n = 2–6), where the strength of aromatic stacking interactions between the carbazole rings increases with an increase in the number of Zn2+ ions bridged.
Comparison of inclusion properties between p-tert-butylcalix[4]arene and p-tert-butylthiacalix[4]arene towards primary alcohols in crystals
Authors: Morohashi Naoya , Nanbu Kazuki , Tonosaki Ayano , Noji Shintaro , Hattori Tetsutaro
Published: May 2015

Crystals of p-tert-butylcalix[4]arene (1) and p-tert-butylthiacalix[4]arene (2) exhibit distinct differences in inclusion properties toward primary alcohols, which originates from the difference in the crystal packing of the inclusion crystals.
Cu2+ ions inducing the growth of porous Co3O4 nanospheres as high-capacity supercapacitors
Authors: Liu Rongmei , Jiang Zixiang , Liu Qi , Zhu Xiandong , Chen Weiye
Published: May 2015

Porous Co3O4 nanospheres were successfully synthesized using Cu2+ ions as structure-inducing agents, which exhibit good capacitive properties.
Predicting the degree of aromaticity of novel carbaporphyrinoids
Authors: Valiev Rashid R. , Fliegl Heike , Sundholm Dage
Published: May 2015

Magnetically induced current densities have been calculated for dioxaporphyrin, dithiaporphyrin, true carbaporphyrins, and N-confused porphyrins using the gauge-including magnetically induced current (GIMIC) method.